Managing Absences: How to Report Sick Leave Without Misunderstandings

If you’re unwell, you’re unwell—yet calling in sick often leads to unnecessary friction: When do you have to call, who do you contact, and when do you need a doctor's note? Knowing the basics helps you support your team and protect your own position.

What to Do Immediately

Let your employer know you are unable to work as soon as possible—ideally before your shift or workday begins. Keep your notification brief, factual, and reliable.

• Inform the right contact (supervisor, scheduling office, or HR) and provide an estimated length of absence
• Stick to the facts: no medical diagnoses or details
• Check if your company requires a phone call or if a message is sufficient
• Update your employer promptly if the length of your absence changes

Key tip: Notify early, communicate clearly, be reachable—but you don’t need to share health details.

Doctor’s Notes, Deadlines, Temp Work: The Most Common Pitfalls

Many think: you only need a doctor’s note from day 3 onwards. That’s often true—but your employer can ask for one sooner. What counts are your employment contract, company policies, and, where applicable, your collective agreement.

Practical Tips for Everyday Work

1. Make a note of your reporting procedure (phone numbers, contact persons, times).
2. Save a brief standard message that you can adapt if you get sick.
3. Submit your doctor’s certificate of incapacity for work on time—or find out about your employer's electronic submission procedures (eAU).

Especially in temporary (agency) work: Always inform your assignment company correctly—usually via your staffing agency. This helps the assignment plan stay on track and ensures your employment relationship remains secure.