When it comes time for the conversation, and if it’s a paid sick day; remember that it’s part of your compensation package and you’re entitled to use it. Would you feel guilty about cashing your paycheck?
Don’t apologize for being sick and needing a day; take the mindset that they should be glad it’s just a day because let’s face it, no one gets back to 100% after one day.
Be human, man. Be kind to yourself.
Find out when that record resets. If they’ve created a system where talent is penalized for living on this planet of bacteria, viruses, and the grossest of all, people…then the system should be exploited to its full potential.
Find out how many days in a row count as one sick day, often times employers will only count multiple consecutive sick days days as one occurence.
With those two pieces in hand; if you’re going to be taking a sick day, take the full amount allowed under one occurence, and do that to the maximum allowed until reset.
This write up in your record is nothing more than intimidation being used to “align” your behavior with that of the business, and it’s obscenely disgusting.
If you’re in the UK, then you’re probably well into your work day. I hope this message finds you in better spirits, with the awkward conversation behind you.