Lifescripts, 3rd Edition

103Asking a Coworker to Cover for You

STRATEGY

The goal of this script is getting a coworker to cover for you when you have personal business to take care of outside the office, but don't want to lose a personal/sick day. First a warning: If you're on probation, or have been warned in any way about absenteeism, do not use this script—it's too dangerous. If you ask someone, and get turned down, you won't be able to ask someone else without the risk you'll be discovered. Your only option will be to take time off without pay or use a sick day. The secret to achieving your goal is to encourage an immediate, albeit subtly subconscious, receptivity to your pitch on the part of the listener. You can do that by making them feel important—you're turning to them for help rather than someone else. Opening with a heartfelt appeal helps too—after all, no one likes to refuse a request for help. If you're sure they won't gossip you can be as specific as you please in furnishing the details of your absence. If, on the other hand, you're afraid the word might spread, be as vague as possible, saying only that you have some personal business to attend to. If pressed for more information, say you prefer not to talk about it. Be aware, however, that a refusal to provide the gory details could lead to a flat‐out refusal to help. Consider subtly pointing out how assistance can benefit them, whether it's a promise of reciprocity, or a more manageable work load.

TACTICS

• Attitude: Your attitude should ...