What are the best excuses for taking casual leave when you have just joined a new company?

When you have just joined a new company, it is crucial to maintain a positive and reliable image. Here are some of the most acceptable and believable excuses for taking casual leave, especially in the early stages of your employment:

Medical and Health-Related Reasons

• Illness or Sudden Health Issue: This is one of the most universally accepted reasons. You can mention that you are feeling unwell, have a sudden illness, or need to visit a doctor234.
  • Example: "Hi [Manager's Name], I'm not feeling well and need to take the rest of the day off to recover."

Family Emergencies

• Family Medical Emergency: If there is a serious medical situation involving a family member, this is a valid reason to leave work early134.
  • Example: "Hi [Manager's Name], I've just been informed of a family medical emergency, and I need to leave work immediately."

Childcare Issues

• Childcare Crisis: If your childcare arrangement has fallen through, this is a legitimate reason to leave early13.
  • Example: "Hi [Manager's Name], my childcare arrangement has fallen through, and I need to pick up my child from school/daycare."

Scheduled Appointments

• Medical or Dental Appointments: If you have a scheduled appointment, it is reasonable to take time off for it234.
  • Example: "Hi [Manager's Name], I have a scheduled doctor's appointment that I need to attend."

Home Emergencies

• Home Security Issue: If there is an emergency at home, such as a security alarm going off, this can be a valid reason to leave work early4.
  • Example: "Hi [Manager's Name], I just received a notification that my home security alarm has gone off, and I need to check on it."

General but Respectful Approach

• No Specific Reason: If you are a decent employee and have not taken many days off, you can simply state that you need to take care of something important without providing details. Mentioning it in the morning can help avoid any last-minute disruptions2.
  • Example: "Hi [Manager's Name], I need to head home early today to take care of something important. I'll ensure my tasks are covered."

It is important to be honest and professional when requesting to leave work early. Avoid using excuses that could be perceived as dishonest or unprofessional, such as being hungover, bored, or wanting to attend a non-urgent event134.