The email I sent to my team at work on Tuesday afternoon….
So, I went to the doctor and apparently I am taking a walk with pneumonia… I officially have walking pneumonia. Phooey. I don’t have time. But, I do have a doctor’s note and an extra shot in my booty.
(I gave some great advice for next time someone has to call in sick!).
1. A good tactic is to stay short and concise, and then put in just one extra detail. Example: “I’m really sick. It started last night and I’ve been throwing up ever since.” Don’t get too detailed. For example, don’t say “I’m really sick. It started at 12:37 and I’ve been throwing up ever since.” See, this totally doesn’t work for me ~ because I DO notice the time when I get out of bed sick – I immediately calculate the remaining hours and minutes until the alarm goes off and use that time wisely to plan and throw myself a pity party.
2. If you can, call your boss’s voice mail or send him an e-mail rather than speaking with him or her directly. This avoids the possibility of questions and awkward advice that often trips up the caller. Also, be sure to know the voicemail system prompts. There isn’t always an option to erase and re-record your message if you mess up. Again, doesn’t work. Our boss answers her phone, and her cell phone and her email – aagh!
3. If you do speak to someone in person, provide details. Avoid a comprehensive diagnosis like “I’ve got the flu”. If you describe symptoms such as congestion, coughing, fever, etc., the person is more likely to believe you. They’ll probably also decide to get off the phone as soon as possible. I’m not sure if I provided details. I was still pretty mad about the shot.
4. Make the phone call early in the morning if possible, when your voice is still rough with sleep. This will give you some added credibility. Nope, this afternoon at 3:28pm. See, again with the time thing!
I wish I could take a nap with my favorite monkey today…
you had to get a shot! on the booty! NOT fun!
all i know… you made me laugh!
and HELLO… tell us more about this cute monkey!