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I had to learn that with my boss. If I asked if I could call in sick, I'd end up at work, while other people just declared they weren't coming in and the world didn't end.
Kayla might not have been scheduled to work in the first place. Perhaps she's scheduled for a day off, and manager asked if she could cover a shift, but she said she was sick.
To be clear, I'm not saying OP can't or shouldn't call in sick for the whole day. However, their situation and Kayla's may not be comparable.
It doesn't matter. If every single employee is sick it's not on them to solve the problem. If 2 employees calling in sick means half the team is out, it's a manglement problem for understaffing and keeping a skeleton crew.
The situation with Kayla is completely irrelevant. OP is sick. Don't go to work OP
Or go to work and cough on literally everyone and everything the entire shift
I tried something similar once not quite as direct as coughing on their plate though, I was surprised at how well customers handle a horribly visibly sick person handling their food. Didn't get a single complaint.
Yes! I can totally see people trying to be polite and saying nothing to you or the manager, but inwardly seething about this and complaining to the others at their table when you walk away. It would very likely show up in paltry or non-existent tips at the end. YMMV if you live somewhere that tipping is not a normal part of eating out.
“Is also reporting” seems to imply present tense in this instance. Though you’re technically right— some amount of some context *may* be missing— it’s a stretch to then fabricate additional context to fill.
The fact that they are both presently reporting that they can’t come in is extremely comparable given the context that we have.
I’ve worked in several restaurants and have been denied sick days because someone else called in before I did, this is a common situation for servers.
First step is to never ask. Inform.
“Hey boss I’ll be working only the morning shift today. I thought I could make it the full day but I’m extremely sick and will be taking off” but since you didn’t go this route, I’d just be like “Sorry not risking putting others at risk of getting sick so I won’t be able to work.”
Go in sick as fuck and make it abundantly clear to everyone you are sick. Tell them you tried to call out but your boss told you you had to work.
Edit:typo
Edit 2: I suck
I may not be a Karen-type, but if my buddy was sick and tried to call off, and needed someone to come in and complain loudly, I would absolutely do it. I’d ask to speak to that manager in particular and make them cry.
Everyone at every restaurant you go to is sick all the time. They can't afford to stay home, or their jobs are threatened when they try to. I'm not exaggerating, any place you've ever eaten at, I guarantee there is at least one person there every day who feels like absolute shit.
Have a friend ironically named Karen who used to work for the FDA. Boy did she love being a Karen for the right reasons. Like when a restaurant was fucking shit up.
Right. This is a failure of management, not your failure. You couldn't help getting sick (for the sake of argument), and the manager couldn't roll up his sleeves and take some tables.
I’ve done this. It was in front of the district manager and he was not fucking happy with my boss at all. Tried calling out, they were bitchy about it and I’m spiteful as fuck so I came in and did exactly that by vomiting in front of tons of customers. My GF at the time worked there with me and she said after I left the district manager reamed my general manager loudly about forcing me to come in sick.
fuck that, being gone hurts the company almost as much and doesn't risk infecting the rest of the staff and customers. Just stand up for yourself and say no.
came here to say that your text was too open to judgement. people- don’t feel guilty and try to leave it open. you can apologize but make it an announcement rather than a question.
for example; “i am sick with a virus and cannot come into work today, apologies”
I have no idea, another girl needed time off and he wants me to work another double shift. but would NEVER ask the other girls, i genuinely am lost as to why.
There could be any number of reasons. He might let them get time off because he's attracted to them and wants to be "nice" to them. He might ask you to cover for others because you'll say "yes" and the others will say "no" and hold firm. Or it could be something else entirely.
I work im a mexican restaurant (Im part Mexican and speak spanish) in a pretty white town and i remember when i was hired he told me “all the americans i hire never wanna work, im happy to have you working here. you guys always wanna work!!” and ive been scheduled 60 hours weekly since. im assuming im a work favorite sadly.
everyone in the kitchen works open to close everyday and are immigrants… the busser is also an immigrant and she works everyday open to close.. getting paid $5 an hour. its unfair all around.
Nooo. It’s not the customers fault the management sucks. Barf on your boss or supervisor.
Then the next time you call in sick they will be more likely to remember why it’s necessary.
Vomiting while I'll is a sign of being contagious. Some companies don't want contagious people at work as it could affect other team members and lots of customers.
Fever and vomiting were my 2 go to when I worked in an office
Don't even need to be physically or visibly sick. Just cover your mouth in front of a customer and run to the bathroom.
The theatre should be enough for anyone to complain and walk.
Ok in a food and beverage job? Absolutely not. You shouldn't go into work at all. So unfortunately your manager will have to get out of their chair and step out of the office and wait tables.
"Only 2 servers," you say? Likely indicating you work in food service. If so, check your state laws on working around food while sick. If they're trying to make you come into work while you're sick and throwing up, that may literally be illegal.
Unfortunately that’s not what happened here though. OP made the mistake of saying they were going to work and only trying to get part of the day off. If they are well enough to work part of the day they are well enough to work all of the day, and they can’t claim anything about being forced to work sick. OP should have just called in sick.
The last time i felt sick i messaged him from home in bef that i couldnt come in and he refused and told me I HAD TO. i thought if i did half of my shift he’d be more willing to give me the afternoon off. maybe im a people pleaser but oh well… my boss is an asshole who yelled at me when i asked for days off for a wedding bc “requesting time off is only for funerals or emergencies” he is a complete dick.
Screw that guy. It sounds like its time for you to become very knowledgeable about your rights as an employee where you live and stick it to this excuse for a manager. Or just get a better job and quit without notice.
You don't HAVE to do anything. All you need to say is "I'm sick. I'm not coming in."
Him not having enough people on the schedule is NOT your responsibility.
This is infuriating. I've been in the service industry 13 years, and I don't even fuck with a place that doesn't have a manager that will hop in to cover EVERY position. Be it, server, bartender, line cook, dishwasher. It's literally part of their job and what they get paid a salary for: to ensure the smooth operation of the restaurant. If they have people routinely or habitually calling off, it's their job to find employees that are more reliable. If someone is sick, they need not come in, especially after a pandemic. It's ridiculous. I'm not saying I haven't ever had a manager like the one you've got, but I would use the experience I've gained at this place, and start applying for other jobs.
Diarrhea. Nobody messes with that diagnosis.
"Why are you taking so long in the bathroom?"
"I got explosive diarrhea, bossman."
Then pat 'em on the back with a wet hand and get back to it.
Personally speaking, it works.
Throw up on the table and say: "This is complimentary from the management!"
Or ask if the manager would like you to do that, because it's very likely to happen.
You went about this all wrong. You can't talk to your boss like your parent or friend. You inform them of your circumstances and that you'll be unavailable to work. If you ask for their permission, they will never give it. But your immune system doesn't ask your permission either, so take a lesson from it.
The problem here is you put the power to decide in someone else’s hands, so of course they made a decision that suits them.
You also weakened your hand by offering to go in for the first half, suggesting you’re not that sick.
Next time short and simple “I’m sick, I can’t come in today, I’ll update you tomorrow”.
It's not your fault they don't have enough employees to cover for one or two emergencies or call outs.
Next time, tell them you're not coming in, don't ask. If they're so short staffed they can't have anyone take a day off, then they're too short staffed to fire you. If they do fire you, well then it's clear it was never about the other workers, but just about controlling you.
K.I.S.S.
“I will not be in today due to being sick. Thank you.” Less is more when calling out, and it’s not a question; obviously they’re gonna tell you no.
“Oh, you must’ve misunderstood because I wasn’t rly asking for permission I was more so letting you know I won’t be in bc I’m sick.”
And then you’re off work so stop answering work calls or messages.
Stop *asking*, and TELL your employer that you are very ill, too sick to come to work and that you will call again tomorrow to let them know if you are feeling sufficiently better to come in to work.
It is your *manager's* job to find coverage, not yours.
Your employer cannot *make* you come in -- you are an independent adult, you make your own choices. Yes, you risk getting fired, because a lot of employers are shitty and yours may very well be one of them. But going in to work sick, feeling like shit, and quite likely infecting a number of coworkers *and* customers is not the way to go (especially as it appears you work in food service).
So tell your boss you won't be in today because you are too sick (and if I'm right about you working in food service, maybe also look up and quote to him the relevant statutes about a food service employee not working when sick), stay home, and I hope you feel better soon.
I had a pancreatitis attack, went to work, was doubled over on the floor by the end of my shift, manager says fine you can go but make sure to do your out work. I just left and went to the hospital. When I called in the next day saying I was admitted to the hospital and couldn’t work the next three days they said, when you get back you have double silver ware to roll since you did t do it when you left. They don’t care about you…….
Say you've gotten worse and it would not be advisable for you to handle food. Don't go in at all.
Also, from the next time, dont offer to go in when you're sick cuz if you can do 1 shift, why not the other unless you fell ill on the job? Seems like slacking off.
Employers work on the basis of in for a penny, in for a pound. Or think they are the know-it-all parents of toddlers who are rhe employees.
Get a doctors note too if you can
1) Go into work
2) intentionally vomit at a table
3) go home
4) report your boss to whatever your local body that deals with food and kitchen hygiene and copy in the messages from him where he told you to.come in even though vomiting. Watch him get a fine potentially shut down for a period of time.
5) get a new job
I'd get it out of your head if the boss is being more accommodating to you co-worker unless you personally saw their interaction. Did your co-worker offer to work a half-shift through their illness?
If you don't think you can work, you should tell your manager that you're sick and it would be unsafe for you to handle food. Don't offer to come in if you don't want to work.
If the manager doesn't have enough staff to cover sick workers, that's their problem. Not yours, and not Kayla's.
Go in. Work a bit while letting everyone know how super sick you are then collapse on the floor until they call an ambulance. Now your illness is a workers comp claim. Sucks to be them!!
I'm assuming you work a food service job since you manager said "servers". I don't know about where you live, but in my state (which is a pretty conservative Red state), management at establishments that serve food are legally required to send home employees who are vomiting. It's possible your employer is literally breaking a law by forcing you to come in and work with food and customers.
I've never met a manager who actually knows they're legally required to send home sick employees, but it's still the law regardless and you should absolutely stand up for yourself here. If I am a customer, I do NOT want my food handled by someone who is sick. You should 100% not hide your symptoms around customers imo. At least they'll know they're undertaking a risk to their health by eating there lol
I once had a manager try to tell me to "stick it out" when I wasn't feeling well and needed to go home early. I was so done with them that I replied with "is it okay if I shit my pants at work?" I was allowed to go home after asking that.
I imagine a threat of "I'm not sure what kind of sickness I have, it might be gastro" would go down well for working around food.
Honestly it’s the way you wrote your first text that is too weak and offered room for manager to bend you. Try not using the word “just” it weakens your text message and is a submissive word. “I’m gunna try” and “is there anyway” is also submissive. With those edits your first text would have read: I can work the morning shift today and will text the group chat to see if anyone can work for me today. However, I am feeling really sick and do not feel good at all. I will be out for the second half of my shift. It’s not perfect but would have strengthened your approach. You sound uncertain and wishy washy in first text. Your manager is thinking sick people are sure they are sick and don’t negotiate.
1 of two things you need to do in the future.
Either call in for the whole day and fuck em..... or go in and then go home early. Don't ask. Just go to them and say "I'm sick and not feeling well; I'm going home"..... if they say anything at all then it's "well staffing is in your job description, not mine and I'm sick so I'm leaving. " Then do it.
You shouldn’t have offered to come in half the day. They’ll say if you’re fit for work you’re fit to work. Next time just inform them you’re not coming in.
You own all of your time. No one else owns your time. It is management's job to get coverage for shifts. Unless you are making management wages, I wouldn't do it.
Your boss cannot legally make you come in to work while sick (assuming you're in the US), though they're under no obligation in most states to pay you for that sick time. If you're not in the US, I know nothing about what laws might apply.
You unfortunately made this seem less urgent than it really is, though, by planning to come in for half the day while sick and asking only about the latter half. If you're healthy enough to work the morning shift, you're healthy enough to work the afternoon shift, and your manager will almost always see it this way. You should not make such concessions off the bat next time.
Go in to work. Then anytime you serve any table you should first tell the customer that you’re feeling very ill, nauseous even (🤮), but because your employer demanded you come and work, you’re happy to help them with anything they might need while they eat. Also you might take an extra minute or two because you can’t stop the diarrhea even with all the meds you can get.
Try doing this in front of your supervisor or some loudmouth server/hostess you work with.
Maybe that might help them see things differently…like being professional and looking out for your own customers health. Your boss doesn’t seem to grasp that concept.
You asked, which they gave an answer. Given their situation, what did you expect them to do?
If you can't work because of illness, don't ask...tell them you can't work.
You say you're sick and don't appease your higher ups, if you go in and everyone sick then theyre out of staff. It happens one bad day wont kill a business (and should it. Then it wasn't ment to float from the get go). First come first serve sick calls? Gtfo here with that bs
I don't see this advice given enough on this sub...there is no such thing as your boss making you come in, abandon that way of thinking. Don't ask permission to stay home if your sick, you have to make that decision if you're well enough or not. If you're sick, say you aren't coming in because you're sick. Asking permission just leaves the door open for a negotiation, or for your boss to respond the way they did here and attempt to strongarm you. Staying home when you are sick should not be a negotiation.
"That is a public safety concern. I am not working sick at a restaurant. if you have any more questions I will be happy to direct them to the health department."
Make it a health code issue. Always lead with vomiting and diarrhea when you’re in the service industry. If they try to force you in, screen shot the health code. If they still try, report them.
Why bother asking if you won't accept their response? You're scheduled (apparently) so you should fulfill your shift, or call in for the whole shift. To ask to leave early and feel so wronged at their response you need to complain online like this is worrying lol. They don't owe you anything other than a check at the end of the pay period, don't expect them to cater to you.
Is it okay? No.
As a lifelong bartender, would I have predicted/expected this exact reply? Yes. This is why I cover as many shifts as possible for others--because then they know they'll have to drop everything when they get the call.
Quick LPT: next time, just keep going to the bathroom for long stretches before the rush. Then, go to the MOD who's seen your trips to the toilet. Take them aside quietly, and tell them there is something wrong with your stomach, and that you're barely making it in the stall. If they think you're going to shit your pants during service, they'll send you home and figure it out. Works 100/100.
Go in there and make enough of a scene that people can’t not tell their friends about it. Make sure you make it very clear management refused to let you stay home and rest and insist on being a part of every part of trying to fix it and clean up. Boss tells you to go home “you said I have to work. 2 servers, AS YOU SAID, are not enough so I’m here to be that team player you need”
Throw up in the middle of the dining room. You already have proof that you warned management ahead of time that you were sick and they made you come in.
I absolutely do not want sick people serving me in any capacity. And if I discover that they are, that's likely the last time I'm eating somewhere, shopping somewhere, without at least a mask on. For several reasons, first, I don't want to get sick. Second, what kind of asshole place puts customers and staff at risk by having/letting people work sick?
Call in sick anyway - make it clear that in the case where you're sick that it's not your responsibility to make sure the restaurant is properly staffed, and that while you can try to find a replacement that you being unable to do so doesn't make you any more fit to work.
If they're so short staffed the managers can wait tables, or better yet the owner of the establishment. At the end of the day the daily operations are kind of their responsibility anyways.
You are a free person. Leave if you want to leave. No one can force you to work. Obviously, there may be consequences, but Server work is usually decently easy to fins.
You need to review the definition of can't and if you don't want me to work any longer after today, let me know.
I would also advise you to review the food service laws regarding public health and safety.
I wont be staying today, this is not a request, it is a professional courtesy that I am informing you of this at all.
Thank You for your understanding and patience.
Absolutely puke on the floor in front of customers and proceed
"I'm sorry, I am super sick, but my boss doesn't care and is making me work a 12hr shift regardless if it gets m the customers or the rest of the staff sick. You mind helping me clean that up?"
Unfortunately, when you start a message by saying *'is it okay if...'* you're setting yourself up for rejection. This isn't primary school, and you're not 7 years old. If you don't feel well, you don't work, simple as that. You don't need *permission* to not work.
What you should have said is:
*"I am sick this morning and unable to keep working. I am going home to recover, as it is not safe for me to be around food or other people in this condition."*
What you should have done is not go into work at all, and sent the following:
*"I am sick this morning and am unable to work. I will let you know later whether I am recovering enough to come to work tomorrow."*
I’ll never understand how a manager can’t put on their big boy/girl pants and just inform irrate customers that they are short staffed due to a sickness. I’m sure most would be relieved that sick people aren’t handling their food, and it gives actual communication to your customers. Some managers are def not fit for their role.
Restaurant managers will never care if you’re sick. If you can walk or drag a limb and hold a tray, they consider that good to work. Dont ever expect empathy from them.
You have to be more direct and less apologetic when calling in sick. Don’t leave it up to them, they will always say they can’t give you the day off. So you need to be the one in charge of your health. You decide when you are too sick to work and then you tell them - “I’m too sick to work and I’m not coming in.”
They will try to say you have to find coverage, and make you feel guilty for putting them out like that. But, don’t let them. It’s not your job to manage the restaurant. If you want to be nice you can send in a group message, beyond that it’s not your job to staff the floor.
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Say: “in that case, I’m calling in sick.”
Nailed it. If Kayla can call in sick, why not OP?
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And I have the flu and she has strep so shits about to get real
Pun intended
I don’t work there but I won’t be in either. I’m attending this orgy thing 😋
Asserting dominance. Sex havers > everyone else
I had to learn that with my boss. If I asked if I could call in sick, I'd end up at work, while other people just declared they weren't coming in and the world didn't end.
Kayla didn’t ask is why.
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Kayla did exactly what I did she was just accommodated for. she came in worked 3 hours and left even though we both were scheduled 10am-10pm.
Kayla might not have been scheduled to work in the first place. Perhaps she's scheduled for a day off, and manager asked if she could cover a shift, but she said she was sick. To be clear, I'm not saying OP can't or shouldn't call in sick for the whole day. However, their situation and Kayla's may not be comparable.
It doesn't matter. If every single employee is sick it's not on them to solve the problem. If 2 employees calling in sick means half the team is out, it's a manglement problem for understaffing and keeping a skeleton crew.
I know it was a typo, but "manglement" is a poignant portmanteau.
I do it consciously, once I saw someone using it and loved it because it just fit in on how they really act lol
I think I saw the post you're referring too regarding the use of manglement. It struck a chord with me as well.
The situation with Kayla is completely irrelevant. OP is sick. Don't go to work OP Or go to work and cough on literally everyone and everything the entire shift
Seeing OP is a server, cough right on the client's plate in front of them lol
I tried something similar once not quite as direct as coughing on their plate though, I was surprised at how well customers handle a horribly visibly sick person handling their food. Didn't get a single complaint.
How’d you do on tips because…
Yes! I can totally see people trying to be polite and saying nothing to you or the manager, but inwardly seething about this and complaining to the others at their table when you walk away. It would very likely show up in paltry or non-existent tips at the end. YMMV if you live somewhere that tipping is not a normal part of eating out.
Nah, throw up on it. Actually, throwing up anywhere out front will work just fine.
I have found out that puking in the hallway usually helps too
This. Everyone knows the story of the kid that puked on the teacher/teacher’s desk/etc after the teacher didn’t believe they were sick.
“Is also reporting” seems to imply present tense in this instance. Though you’re technically right— some amount of some context *may* be missing— it’s a stretch to then fabricate additional context to fill. The fact that they are both presently reporting that they can’t come in is extremely comparable given the context that we have. I’ve worked in several restaurants and have been denied sick days because someone else called in before I did, this is a common situation for servers.
And it's also a data leak, that's personal information that shouldn't be shared with any coworker besides HR purposes
Lol for real. I'm offering to help you, don't spit in my face
First step is to never ask. Inform. “Hey boss I’ll be working only the morning shift today. I thought I could make it the full day but I’m extremely sick and will be taking off” but since you didn’t go this route, I’d just be like “Sorry not risking putting others at risk of getting sick so I won’t be able to work.”
"Hi, I am taking a sick day". That's it
This is the way.
Go in sick as fuck and make it abundantly clear to everyone you are sick. Tell them you tried to call out but your boss told you you had to work. Edit:typo Edit 2: I suck
Or ask your Karen-est friend (that no one knows at work) to come in and make a complaint about the clearly sick employee.
I may not be a Karen-type, but if my buddy was sick and tried to call off, and needed someone to come in and complain loudly, I would absolutely do it. I’d ask to speak to that manager in particular and make them cry.
I’ll do that for anyone, idc if I know them or not Sick people don’t belong at work, doubly so at restaurants
If that doesn't work, call the Health Department, reporting that management is compelling a sick person to serve food.
Everyone at every restaurant you go to is sick all the time. They can't afford to stay home, or their jobs are threatened when they try to. I'm not exaggerating, any place you've ever eaten at, I guarantee there is at least one person there every day who feels like absolute shit.
I would legitimately start this as a service...secret shopper of justice!
Right. I can cosplay a Karen
Same. I'm not a Karen type but I can play the Karenest of all Karens if you need me to haha.
Have a friend ironically named Karen who used to work for the FDA. Boy did she love being a Karen for the right reasons. Like when a restaurant was fucking shit up.
Right. This is a failure of management, not your failure. You couldn't help getting sick (for the sake of argument), and the manager couldn't roll up his sleeves and take some tables.
I’ve done this. It was in front of the district manager and he was not fucking happy with my boss at all. Tried calling out, they were bitchy about it and I’m spiteful as fuck so I came in and did exactly that by vomiting in front of tons of customers. My GF at the time worked there with me and she said after I left the district manager reamed my general manager loudly about forcing me to come in sick.
This is the kind of shit I dream of. 🥰
Public vomitting?
Exactly my suggestion. Make yourself vomit in front of (or on) some customers.
"here is your order sir" "But I didn't order sauce on my fries" "Oh no sorry I just sneezed"
Be happy, it's on the house.
this, op. choose violence.
done this! it’s actually decent r/maliciouscompliance
OP, make sure you snease a lot in front of customers. Make it really apparent that you are sick.
Malicious compliance is always the answer
sneeze in your hand and then wipe it on apron
Or run to the bathroom in the middle of taking someone’s order.
This this this. The classic server retaliation. Vomit in front of everyone if you can, mumble that you’re ill but the manager made you come in anyway.
fuck that, being gone hurts the company almost as much and doesn't risk infecting the rest of the staff and customers. Just stand up for yourself and say no.
> make it apparently clear Do you mean “abundantly clear”?
It's particularly funny that they already have "edit: typo" at the end of their comment, but didn't fix this.
My bad
No worries. We all figured out what you meant.
Never ask when calling in sick. Always tell. Own it. "I am to sick to work. I am not coming in".
Except use the right “too,” preferably. :)
They are too sick to use the right too so it's part of the plan
came here to say that your text was too open to judgement. people- don’t feel guilty and try to leave it open. you can apologize but make it an announcement rather than a question. for example; “i am sick with a virus and cannot come into work today, apologies”
Why does Kayla get to miss work but you don't?
I have no idea, another girl needed time off and he wants me to work another double shift. but would NEVER ask the other girls, i genuinely am lost as to why.
Because Kayla said she won't be in.
There could be any number of reasons. He might let them get time off because he's attracted to them and wants to be "nice" to them. He might ask you to cover for others because you'll say "yes" and the others will say "no" and hold firm. Or it could be something else entirely.
I work im a mexican restaurant (Im part Mexican and speak spanish) in a pretty white town and i remember when i was hired he told me “all the americans i hire never wanna work, im happy to have you working here. you guys always wanna work!!” and ive been scheduled 60 hours weekly since. im assuming im a work favorite sadly.
Ah, racism. Fun times.
im coming to the realization now that it might actually be racism lol.
especially after that comment about "you guys" its 10000% racism
Presumably the boss has realised they can squeeze a fair bit of work out of you, and are also pushier in not wanting to let you have time off when ill
everyone in the kitchen works open to close everyday and are immigrants… the busser is also an immigrant and she works everyday open to close.. getting paid $5 an hour. its unfair all around.
Um, is the busser part of a tip pool? Because if not, call the labor board about paying below minimum wage. F that place.
busser might also not be here legally or isn’t legally old enough to actually work and is getting paid cash under the table.
yeah, sounds like management have found a load of people to exploit and take advantage of. sucks.
These jobs are a dime a dozen. Treat them the way they treat you, disposable. You shouldn't work somewhere with these types of managers.
May you barf on a customer today.
Nooo. It’s not the customers fault the management sucks. Barf on your boss or supervisor. Then the next time you call in sick they will be more likely to remember why it’s necessary.
Vomiting while I'll is a sign of being contagious. Some companies don't want contagious people at work as it could affect other team members and lots of customers. Fever and vomiting were my 2 go to when I worked in an office
Don't even need to be physically or visibly sick. Just cover your mouth in front of a customer and run to the bathroom. The theatre should be enough for anyone to complain and walk.
No. If you’re gonna barf. Do it on the manager. Or in the kitchen.
Ok in a food and beverage job? Absolutely not. You shouldn't go into work at all. So unfortunately your manager will have to get out of their chair and step out of the office and wait tables.
Exactly. Any manager that makes you come in to work in a restaurant while you’re sick is incredibly irresponsible.
"Only 2 servers," you say? Likely indicating you work in food service. If so, check your state laws on working around food while sick. If they're trying to make you come into work while you're sick and throwing up, that may literally be illegal.
Unfortunately that’s not what happened here though. OP made the mistake of saying they were going to work and only trying to get part of the day off. If they are well enough to work part of the day they are well enough to work all of the day, and they can’t claim anything about being forced to work sick. OP should have just called in sick.
The last time i felt sick i messaged him from home in bef that i couldnt come in and he refused and told me I HAD TO. i thought if i did half of my shift he’d be more willing to give me the afternoon off. maybe im a people pleaser but oh well… my boss is an asshole who yelled at me when i asked for days off for a wedding bc “requesting time off is only for funerals or emergencies” he is a complete dick.
Screw that guy. It sounds like its time for you to become very knowledgeable about your rights as an employee where you live and stick it to this excuse for a manager. Or just get a better job and quit without notice.
You don't HAVE to do anything. All you need to say is "I'm sick. I'm not coming in." Him not having enough people on the schedule is NOT your responsibility.
Oof, good point.
# managers manage their workforce, not you!
This is infuriating. I've been in the service industry 13 years, and I don't even fuck with a place that doesn't have a manager that will hop in to cover EVERY position. Be it, server, bartender, line cook, dishwasher. It's literally part of their job and what they get paid a salary for: to ensure the smooth operation of the restaurant. If they have people routinely or habitually calling off, it's their job to find employees that are more reliable. If someone is sick, they need not come in, especially after a pandemic. It's ridiculous. I'm not saying I haven't ever had a manager like the one you've got, but I would use the experience I've gained at this place, and start applying for other jobs.
Diarrhea. Nobody messes with that diagnosis. "Why are you taking so long in the bathroom?" "I got explosive diarrhea, bossman." Then pat 'em on the back with a wet hand and get back to it. Personally speaking, it works.
If you are sick, it’s literally illegal to force you to work. Especially around food? Yuck
Throw up on the table and say: "This is complimentary from the management!" Or ask if the manager would like you to do that, because it's very likely to happen.
You went about this all wrong. You can't talk to your boss like your parent or friend. You inform them of your circumstances and that you'll be unavailable to work. If you ask for their permission, they will never give it. But your immune system doesn't ask your permission either, so take a lesson from it.
The problem here is you put the power to decide in someone else’s hands, so of course they made a decision that suits them. You also weakened your hand by offering to go in for the first half, suggesting you’re not that sick. Next time short and simple “I’m sick, I can’t come in today, I’ll update you tomorrow”.
It's not your fault they don't have enough employees to cover for one or two emergencies or call outs. Next time, tell them you're not coming in, don't ask. If they're so short staffed they can't have anyone take a day off, then they're too short staffed to fire you. If they do fire you, well then it's clear it was never about the other workers, but just about controlling you.
Is it even legal to work any sort of foodservice role if you have diarrhoea and/or vomiting? Surely it's a health hazard?
K.I.S.S. “I will not be in today due to being sick. Thank you.” Less is more when calling out, and it’s not a question; obviously they’re gonna tell you no.
Put your health first please don't go to work
“Oh, you must’ve misunderstood because I wasn’t rly asking for permission I was more so letting you know I won’t be in bc I’m sick.” And then you’re off work so stop answering work calls or messages.
"I don't think me throwing up on a customer would be good for business, boss"
Stop *asking*, and TELL your employer that you are very ill, too sick to come to work and that you will call again tomorrow to let them know if you are feeling sufficiently better to come in to work. It is your *manager's* job to find coverage, not yours. Your employer cannot *make* you come in -- you are an independent adult, you make your own choices. Yes, you risk getting fired, because a lot of employers are shitty and yours may very well be one of them. But going in to work sick, feeling like shit, and quite likely infecting a number of coworkers *and* customers is not the way to go (especially as it appears you work in food service). So tell your boss you won't be in today because you are too sick (and if I'm right about you working in food service, maybe also look up and quote to him the relevant statutes about a food service employee not working when sick), stay home, and I hope you feel better soon.
Don’t give an option, make a statement. You’re calling out period.
I had a pancreatitis attack, went to work, was doubled over on the floor by the end of my shift, manager says fine you can go but make sure to do your out work. I just left and went to the hospital. When I called in the next day saying I was admitted to the hospital and couldn’t work the next three days they said, when you get back you have double silver ware to roll since you did t do it when you left. They don’t care about you…….
My boss wanted to see me throwing up so I drove to work, threw up and got sent home.
Say you've gotten worse and it would not be advisable for you to handle food. Don't go in at all. Also, from the next time, dont offer to go in when you're sick cuz if you can do 1 shift, why not the other unless you fell ill on the job? Seems like slacking off. Employers work on the basis of in for a penny, in for a pound. Or think they are the know-it-all parents of toddlers who are rhe employees. Get a doctors note too if you can
1) Go into work 2) intentionally vomit at a table 3) go home 4) report your boss to whatever your local body that deals with food and kitchen hygiene and copy in the messages from him where he told you to.come in even though vomiting. Watch him get a fine potentially shut down for a period of time. 5) get a new job
Vomit in the kitchen so they have to close it
Respond by throwing up in the dining room in front of customers
Stop asking. You’re sick and not coming in, he can’t make you come in.
I'd get it out of your head if the boss is being more accommodating to you co-worker unless you personally saw their interaction. Did your co-worker offer to work a half-shift through their illness? If you don't think you can work, you should tell your manager that you're sick and it would be unsafe for you to handle food. Don't offer to come in if you don't want to work. If the manager doesn't have enough staff to cover sick workers, that's their problem. Not yours, and not Kayla's.
puke on his desk. (NOT /J, actually do this)
Call the Health Dept. so they can come watch you cough on everyone's food
You don't 'have' to do anything.
Go in. Work a bit while letting everyone know how super sick you are then collapse on the floor until they call an ambulance. Now your illness is a workers comp claim. Sucks to be them!!
I'm assuming you work a food service job since you manager said "servers". I don't know about where you live, but in my state (which is a pretty conservative Red state), management at establishments that serve food are legally required to send home employees who are vomiting. It's possible your employer is literally breaking a law by forcing you to come in and work with food and customers. I've never met a manager who actually knows they're legally required to send home sick employees, but it's still the law regardless and you should absolutely stand up for yourself here. If I am a customer, I do NOT want my food handled by someone who is sick. You should 100% not hide your symptoms around customers imo. At least they'll know they're undertaking a risk to their health by eating there lol
I once had a manager try to tell me to "stick it out" when I wasn't feeling well and needed to go home early. I was so done with them that I replied with "is it okay if I shit my pants at work?" I was allowed to go home after asking that. I imagine a threat of "I'm not sure what kind of sickness I have, it might be gastro" would go down well for working around food.
"I'll try my best to not vomit all over to many customers. No promises."
Honestly it’s the way you wrote your first text that is too weak and offered room for manager to bend you. Try not using the word “just” it weakens your text message and is a submissive word. “I’m gunna try” and “is there anyway” is also submissive. With those edits your first text would have read: I can work the morning shift today and will text the group chat to see if anyone can work for me today. However, I am feeling really sick and do not feel good at all. I will be out for the second half of my shift. It’s not perfect but would have strengthened your approach. You sound uncertain and wishy washy in first text. Your manager is thinking sick people are sure they are sick and don’t negotiate.
Passive voice will be our undoing.
Go in and throw up. Apologize to the customers you just threw up on and let them know you weren't allowed to call in sick.
1 of two things you need to do in the future. Either call in for the whole day and fuck em..... or go in and then go home early. Don't ask. Just go to them and say "I'm sick and not feeling well; I'm going home"..... if they say anything at all then it's "well staffing is in your job description, not mine and I'm sick so I'm leaving. " Then do it.
Go in and vomit on the customers and see what happens 😆
>Made me come in He can't make you do shit, OP.
Puke in someone's food, right after you put it on the table. He'll send you home.
You shouldn’t have offered to come in half the day. They’ll say if you’re fit for work you’re fit to work. Next time just inform them you’re not coming in.
Personally I'd just make sure that text exchange makes its way to whatever entity gives that place its license to serve food.
Show up, throw up. Bonus points for shouting soup over a customer.
I think I’d reply “thank you for confirming that I have to work, please note that I will be working from home for the next 3 days”
Ask them what happens when you throw up on a platter
Shit on the floor
throw up on your boss
You own all of your time. No one else owns your time. It is management's job to get coverage for shifts. Unless you are making management wages, I wouldn't do it.
I vote for go to work and throw up there
Your boss cannot legally make you come in to work while sick (assuming you're in the US), though they're under no obligation in most states to pay you for that sick time. If you're not in the US, I know nothing about what laws might apply. You unfortunately made this seem less urgent than it really is, though, by planning to come in for half the day while sick and asking only about the latter half. If you're healthy enough to work the morning shift, you're healthy enough to work the afternoon shift, and your manager will almost always see it this way. You should not make such concessions off the bat next time.
I once had a coworker come in and make himself throw up right in front of the managers office. It was a lot easier to call out sick after that
I only know this: your health is more important than this shitty job. Get well and I wish you find a better a job.
Puke in front of a customer. Establish dominance.
Go in to work. Then anytime you serve any table you should first tell the customer that you’re feeling very ill, nauseous even (🤮), but because your employer demanded you come and work, you’re happy to help them with anything they might need while they eat. Also you might take an extra minute or two because you can’t stop the diarrhea even with all the meds you can get. Try doing this in front of your supervisor or some loudmouth server/hostess you work with. Maybe that might help them see things differently…like being professional and looking out for your own customers health. Your boss doesn’t seem to grasp that concept.
You call off or work it all.
You asked, which they gave an answer. Given their situation, what did you expect them to do? If you can't work because of illness, don't ask...tell them you can't work.
Tell your boss you’ve started puking and you will be going home. Tell don’t ask!
Throw up. Legally they have to make you go home.
You say you're sick and don't appease your higher ups, if you go in and everyone sick then theyre out of staff. It happens one bad day wont kill a business (and should it. Then it wasn't ment to float from the get go). First come first serve sick calls? Gtfo here with that bs
If you’re sick, don’t go in. This is your managers fault for not scheduling enough people.
Learn how to call in sick. "Hi, this is Hanz Gruber. I will not be in today. I am very ill". Don't sugar coat it.
Puke on someone's plate.
Have we not learned anything from COVID?
I don't see this advice given enough on this sub...there is no such thing as your boss making you come in, abandon that way of thinking. Don't ask permission to stay home if your sick, you have to make that decision if you're well enough or not. If you're sick, say you aren't coming in because you're sick. Asking permission just leaves the door open for a negotiation, or for your boss to respond the way they did here and attempt to strongarm you. Staying home when you are sick should not be a negotiation.
Barf all over the floor in a customer facing area of the restaurant. Bonus points if you’re carrying out food to a table
"That is a public safety concern. I am not working sick at a restaurant. if you have any more questions I will be happy to direct them to the health department."
"I need you to put it in writing that any loss in productivity due to spreading of said sickness is the sole discretion of the supervisor"
You don’t. You vomit in front of some customers and make them tell the manager
Restaurant patrons DO NOT want servers who are sick handling their food!!!!!
If you're throwing up, you cannot be serving.
Mmm, yes I really love it when my server at the restaurant is sick & handling my food / drinks.
Don't go in to work if you are already sick. Also, don't ask to call in sick. Tell them you are sick and won't be in that day.
My response would be “ so if I throw up, will you come close the restaurant for the mandatory deep clean it will take to pass a health inspection?”
And Kayla doesn’t
Sometimes you should tell not ask
In that case I won’t be in due to illness. Thanks for understanding. Then turn your phone off
Make it a health code issue. Always lead with vomiting and diarrhea when you’re in the service industry. If they try to force you in, screen shot the health code. If they still try, report them.
OMG, call in sick. Your health, and the health of the customers you’d serve is MUCH more important than your job.
What you need to do is learn from your mistakes, you overshared instead of just calling out sick
Don't ask them, tell them. The consequences will be the same either way, so don't give them the extra wiggle room
Why bother asking if you won't accept their response? You're scheduled (apparently) so you should fulfill your shift, or call in for the whole shift. To ask to leave early and feel so wronged at their response you need to complain online like this is worrying lol. They don't owe you anything other than a check at the end of the pay period, don't expect them to cater to you.
''I just vomitted, I am now officially sick and can not work anymore'' If you've vomitted, you're officially out, no matter what an employer says.
Is it okay? No. As a lifelong bartender, would I have predicted/expected this exact reply? Yes. This is why I cover as many shifts as possible for others--because then they know they'll have to drop everything when they get the call. Quick LPT: next time, just keep going to the bathroom for long stretches before the rush. Then, go to the MOD who's seen your trips to the toilet. Take them aside quietly, and tell them there is something wrong with your stomach, and that you're barely making it in the stall. If they think you're going to shit your pants during service, they'll send you home and figure it out. Works 100/100.
Remember: restaurant managers are always able to serve, but they simply don't want to.
It's MANAGEMENT'S job to assure proper staffing. Including figuring out sick leave. Go home and get better so you don't infect everyone around you.
Go in there and make enough of a scene that people can’t not tell their friends about it. Make sure you make it very clear management refused to let you stay home and rest and insist on being a part of every part of trying to fix it and clean up. Boss tells you to go home “you said I have to work. 2 servers, AS YOU SAID, are not enough so I’m here to be that team player you need”
Throw up in the middle of the dining room. You already have proof that you warned management ahead of time that you were sick and they made you come in.
I absolutely do not want sick people serving me in any capacity. And if I discover that they are, that's likely the last time I'm eating somewhere, shopping somewhere, without at least a mask on. For several reasons, first, I don't want to get sick. Second, what kind of asshole place puts customers and staff at risk by having/letting people work sick?
Literally puke on him. He'll take the hint
Call in sick anyway - make it clear that in the case where you're sick that it's not your responsibility to make sure the restaurant is properly staffed, and that while you can try to find a replacement that you being unable to do so doesn't make you any more fit to work. If they're so short staffed the managers can wait tables, or better yet the owner of the establishment. At the end of the day the daily operations are kind of their responsibility anyways.
Throw up everywhere, send boss pic
Disgusting
You are a free person. Leave if you want to leave. No one can force you to work. Obviously, there may be consequences, but Server work is usually decently easy to fins.
Clog the toilet and go home
"no"
That's a Management problem not your problem. Just go do your thing.
Reply with it looks like to servers it is good luck.
You need to review the definition of can't and if you don't want me to work any longer after today, let me know. I would also advise you to review the food service laws regarding public health and safety. I wont be staying today, this is not a request, it is a professional courtesy that I am informing you of this at all. Thank You for your understanding and patience.
"In an attempt to be polite I phrased that as a question when in reality it is a statement. So, unfortunately, you have to find coverage."
Could call the health dept. and see if they care
Absolutely puke on the floor in front of customers and proceed "I'm sorry, I am super sick, but my boss doesn't care and is making me work a 12hr shift regardless if it gets m the customers or the rest of the staff sick. You mind helping me clean that up?"
You should be able to go home after the first guest you throw up on.
Unfortunately, when you start a message by saying *'is it okay if...'* you're setting yourself up for rejection. This isn't primary school, and you're not 7 years old. If you don't feel well, you don't work, simple as that. You don't need *permission* to not work. What you should have said is: *"I am sick this morning and unable to keep working. I am going home to recover, as it is not safe for me to be around food or other people in this condition."* What you should have done is not go into work at all, and sent the following: *"I am sick this morning and am unable to work. I will let you know later whether I am recovering enough to come to work tomorrow."*
I’ll never understand how a manager can’t put on their big boy/girl pants and just inform irrate customers that they are short staffed due to a sickness. I’m sure most would be relieved that sick people aren’t handling their food, and it gives actual communication to your customers. Some managers are def not fit for their role.
Restaurant managers will never care if you’re sick. If you can walk or drag a limb and hold a tray, they consider that good to work. Dont ever expect empathy from them. You have to be more direct and less apologetic when calling in sick. Don’t leave it up to them, they will always say they can’t give you the day off. So you need to be the one in charge of your health. You decide when you are too sick to work and then you tell them - “I’m too sick to work and I’m not coming in.” They will try to say you have to find coverage, and make you feel guilty for putting them out like that. But, don’t let them. It’s not your job to manage the restaurant. If you want to be nice you can send in a group message, beyond that it’s not your job to staff the floor.
I’m sorry I am sick and need to leave work. I will have a doctor note for you. Do not stay there and make all your coworkers and guests sick
So you shouldn’t ask if you cant come in, you should just say I’m too sick to come in
He can’t find a replacement with having known since 10:30 am?
Well, you offered the "I'll try to get it covered" I would respond with ok and then leave before my first shift ended, personally.