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This time of year is typically called “cold and flu season” because we spend more time indoors and around other people who might have symptoms like a sore throat, cough, or runny nose. Even when we get flu shots, it’s possible that we might get sick.
I’m not here today to tell you whether to get a shot or wear a mask. I am here to say that when individuals need to take care of their health, they should be allowed. Sad to say but getting sick and needing time to recover is a part of our personal and work lives.
The reason for today’s article is that I was out visiting the Reddit antiwork community recently and I’m amazed at the number of postings I see where managers are demanding that sick employees come into work. People are posting text messages where they tell their manager that they ate something and now are spending all their time in the bathroom (you know what I’m referring to) and the manager says, “I expect you to show up for your shift.”
Okay, I know this is social media and we don’t know the entire story. But we all know that there are many managers that make their people come into work even though they are genuinely sick.
Honestly, we just need to stop this. We should not ask people to work when they are sick, and we should not have to explain to people not to work when sick or contagious. I shouldn’t have to say this but let me say it anyway. Regardless of the reasons, asking an employee to work when they are sick doesn’t come across like you have any regard for the welfare of others.
MANAGERS: Please tell your employees not to come to work when they are sick. If you don’t offer sick pay benefits, consider doing so. It’s not 1985 anymore – paid sick leave is a common – and expected – employee benefit. Not only will it keep employees from showing up to work when they’re sick, but it could be a way to attract candidates. If you have employees who habitually take advantage and call-in sick, coach and counsel them. Don’t pressure them into coming to the workplace anyway.
EMPLOYEES: Please don’t go to work when you are sick. I understand that this could mean having less pay. And it’s easier said than done – especially with all the talk about inflation. But figure out how to either save up a “sick day” fund or find another employer that treats you better by offering paid sick time. I’m pretty sure you do not want to be the reason that a coworker, friend, or someone’s family member gets sick. It’s possible that could lead to someone being hospitalized or worse. Be a good role model for others and practice safety in the workplace.
Honestly, I don’t want to believe that these situations happen to intentionally cause harm. And I understand it’s confusing. We probably all know someone who has worked from home while under a doctor’s care. If an employee insists that they’re taking medication and can get a little work done, then maybe it’s fine to do some work from home. I would strongly suggest speaking with legal counsel to put the appropriate protocols in place. But it’s not mandating that the employee come to the workplace while they are sick and/or contagious.
We want any employee who is sick to get well. No one wants an employee to experience long-term symptoms because they didn’t take care of themselves when they were originally diagnosed.
People want to go places where they feel safe. Let me say that again. People want to live and work and shop and dine at places where they feel safe. Which means that we all must act safe. Staying safe is not asking an employee to go to work when they are sick. And it’s not going into the workplace when you are sick thinking no one will notice or care.
Image captured by Sharlyn Lauby while exploring the streets of Atlanta, GA
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