How to Call Out of Work Sick(Without the Awkward Conversation)
You're not feeling it today. Maybe you're actually sick. Maybe you just need a mental health day. Either way, that phone call to your boss is dreaded by millions of people every single day — and there's a reason for that.
Why Calling Out Sick Feels So Hard
Most people don't dread being sick — they dread the phone call. There's something uniquely uncomfortable about calling your boss, hearing their voice, stumbling over your words, and wondering if they believe you.
Studies show that nearly 40% of workers come into work sick specifically because they want to avoid the conversation. The good news? You have options.
When to Call Out Sick
The general rule: call as early as possible. Most workplaces expect notice before your shift starts — ideally an hour or more. The earlier you call, the more professional it looks.
- Call or text at least 1-2 hours before your shift
- Don't wait until you're already supposed to be there
- If you know the night before, let them know the night before
What to Say When Calling Out Sick
Keep it simple. You don't owe your employer a medical diagnosis. The more you over-explain, the more suspicious you sound.
Basic Sick Day Script
"Hi [Boss's name], it's [Your name]. I'm not feeling well today and I won't be able to make it in. I'll keep you updated if anything changes, and I'll be back as soon as I'm feeling better."
If They Push Back
"I really don't feel up to it today. I want to make sure I'm back at 100% for the rest of the week."
Best Excuses for Calling Out of Work
- General illness — stomach bug, flu, fever. Vague but totally valid.
- Food poisoning — hard to argue with and impossible to disprove.
- Mental health day — increasingly accepted. "Not feeling well" covers this.
- Family emergency — keeps it personal, no details needed.
- Medical appointment — scheduled, professional, and non-negotiable.
Tips for Calling Out Without Getting in Trouble
- Don't over-explain. The more details you add, the more it sounds made up.
- Be consistent. If you say stomach bug, don't post a beach photo that day.
- Offer to help remotely if you can. Shows goodwill.
- Follow up after. A quick "feeling much better, see you tomorrow" text goes a long way.
- Know your policy. Some jobs require a doctor's note after 3+ days.
What if You Just Can't Make the Call?
Some people have anxiety around phone calls. Some bosses make calling out feel like a confrontation. Some days you just can't do it — and that's okay.
That's exactly why we built Hooky. Hooky uses AI to call your employer for you. You tell us the reason, we make the call. Professional, believable, done in minutes — so you can go back to bed.
Skip the call entirely.
Hooky's AI calls your boss for you. Pick an excuse, we handle the rest. Starts at $4.99.
Try Hooky — $4.99 →The Bottom Line
Calling out sick doesn't have to be stressful. Keep it brief, call early, and don't over-explain. Your health — physical or mental — is a valid reason to take a day off.
And if you'd rather not make that call at all, Hooky has you covered.
Ready to skip the awkward call?
Let Hooky Call For You → $4.99