Introduction

When you're feeling under the weather and need to take time off work due to illness, it's essential to set up an out-of-office message to inform colleagues and clients of your absence. A well-crafted sick out-of-office message not only communicates your unavailability but also provides reassurance and guidance on alternative points of contact. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of writing an effective sick out-of-office message, and we'll provide some examples to help you create a professional and informative message.

Start with a Polite Greeting

Begin your sick out-of-office message with a polite greeting. Address your recipients in a friendly and professional manner.

Example:

Dear [Colleague/Client],

Notify About Your Absence

Clearly state that you are currently out of the office due to illness. It's important to provide a specific time frame for your absence.

Example:

I am currently out of the office due to illness and will be away from [start date] until [return date].

Offer an Alternative Point of Contact

Provide an alternative point of contact for urgent matters in your absence. This ensures that important issues can be addressed promptly.

Example:

For urgent matters during my absence, please contact [Name] at [Email/Phone number].

Express Regret for Any Inconvenience

Show empathy for any inconvenience your absence may cause. Express your willingness to assist upon your return.

Example:

I apologize for any inconvenience my absence may cause and appreciate your understanding. I will respond to your email as soon as I am back in the office.

Set Expectations for Response Time

Specify when you expect to return and when your recipients can expect a response from you.

Example:

I will be back in the office on [return date] and will respond to your email promptly after my return.

Thank Them for Their Understanding

Thank your recipients for their understanding and support during your absence.

Example:

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to reconnecting with you upon my return.

Include Your Contact Information

Provide your contact information in case of urgent matters that cannot wait until your return.

Example:

If you need to reach me urgently, please email me at [Your email address] or call me at [Your phone number].

End with a Closing

Conclude your out-of-office message with a polite closing.

Example:

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sick Out-of-Office Message Examples:

Example 1:

Subject: Out-of-Office: Sick Leave

Dear Team,

I am currently out of the office due to illness and will be away from July 20th until July 25th. For any urgent matters during my absence, please contact Jane Doe at [email protected] or call her at (555) 123-4567.

I apologize for any inconvenience my absence may cause and appreciate your understanding. I will respond to your email as soon as I am back in the office on July 26th.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to reconnecting with you upon my return.

Best regards,

John Smith

Example 2:

Subject: Away from Office: Sick Leave

Dear [Client's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. Unfortunately, I am currently out of the office due to illness and will be on sick leave from July 22nd to July 26th.

For any urgent matters during my absence, please reach out to our customer support team at [email protected] or call our helpline at (555) 789-1234.

I regret any inconvenience this may cause and assure you that I will respond to your email as soon as I am back on July 27th.

Thank you for your understanding, and I appreciate your patience.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Conclusion

Writing a sick out-of-office message is a considerate way to inform your colleagues and clients of your unavailability due to illness. By following the provided guidelines and examples, you can craft a professional and informative message that sets expectations, offers an alternative point of contact, and expresses appreciation for understanding during your absence. Remember to focus on clear communication and providing essential information, ensuring that your recipients are informed and well taken care of while you take the time to recover.