Minimalist: Keep it short and sweet by simply saying you missed periods of work because you had cancer. Somewhat open: Maybe mention that you missed work to undergo a few different types of treatment for breast cancer. Pretty open: Talk about undergoing chemotherapy and mastectomy to treat your breast cancer.
Full Answer
Should I Tell my coworkers about my medical situation?
Your employer is not allowed to tell other employees about your medical situation, not even if coworkers notice you receiving accommodations and ask about it. It is up to you which coworkers to tell. Some people tell only a trusted coworker. Some people want everyone they work with to know. Decide how much information you want to share.
What to say to a coworker who has a mental illness?
These phrases are simple, heartfelt and to the point. “I don’t know what to say or how to say it, but I do want you to know I am here for you.” This acknowledges your awkwardness and lets your coworker know that if they feel like talking, you’re a willing audience. This may be enough of an exchange for now, especially if the diagnosis is new.
What to do when a coworker is diagnosed with cancer?
If it’s the first time you’ve had a coworker diagnosed with cancer, it’s probably more difficult. Even worse, what you may think of as a natural and helpful question or comment may not be helpful at all — and may actually be hurtful. First, assess how close you are to the coworker.
Should you tell your coworkers how much you know?
It is up to you which coworkers to tell. Some people tell only a trusted coworker. Some people want everyone they work with to know. Decide how much information you want to share. If you are comfortable sharing your story, this is a great opportunity to educate others.
Should you tell coworkers about health issues?
You shouldn't feel forced or pressured to disclose any personal health matters at work. If your coworkers start to get nosy, just remember that you have every right to keep your health information private. And even if you need to disclose something about your condition at work, it doesn't have to be all or nothing.
What should you not tell your coworkers?
Don't let these simple little career-killing phrases pass your lips or you could lose some of those friends and hurt your professional reputation.“We've always done it this way.” ... “This will only take a second/minute.” ... “That's not my job.” ... “It's not fair.” ... “I'll Try” ... “I can't stand my boss.” ... “You look tired today.More items...
What are some nice things to say about coworkers?
70 Best Compliments For Co-workers That Will Encourage Them To Be BetterHaving you on the team makes a huge difference.I enjoy working with you.Thank you for setting a great example for your coworkers.I was blown away by your contributions this week.I just wanted to let you know how much you mean to the team.More items...•
How do you show concern for coworkers?
4 Easy Things You Can Do to Show Your Co-workers You CareOffer Help. Think of the last time you were struggling at work. ... Get Personal. No, you don't need to get too personal—after all, you're still in the office. ... Provide Recognition. ... Do Something Nice.
Should you talk about your personal life at work?
As any other type of personal relationship, sharing aspects of your personal life can help you connect and better understand each other. This bond is proven to be important to success and satisfaction at work, so it's worth thinking about it.
How do you deal with two faced coworkers?
Ways to Deal with Backstabbing CoworkersKeep calm. Once you discover that backstabbing coworkers are acting against you, intense feelings of anger, pressure, and sadness usually develop. ... Find out exactly what happened. ... Meet with your boss. ... Talk to that co-worker. ... Create a plan to protect yourself.
How do you express gratitude to coworkers?
8 examples of a thank you note to coworkers“Thank you so much for all your help and your kindness. ... “I want to thank you for all your help with the project, I wouldn't have been able to complete it otherwise. ... “Thank you again. ... “We've accomplished a lot together and I appreciate all that you do.More items...•
What can you say to encourage someone at work?
You can “encourage” someone to continue doing what they were already doing:There you go!Keep up the good work.Keep it up.Good job.I'm so proud of you!
How do you write a shout out to a colleague?
“Thank YOU for always being so supportive not only of our many learners but always of me and my many questions and issues. You never say no, wait or I don't have time! I'm not sure where I'd be without you on our team. Thanks for being you!”
How do you show empathy to colleagues?
Here are some ways to show empathy in the workplace:Approach problems from a different perspective. ... Ask questions to understand. ... Validate how the other person is feeling. ... Determine the preferred resolution. ... Develop your listening skills. ... Offer to help. ... Challenge your biases.
How a boss should treat employees?
When companies treat employees fairly, everyone winsMaking decision-making transparent.Providing employees with opportunities to provide input/feedback.Acknowledging employees' contributions.Making time for employees to provide input on decisions when possible.Treating employees with respect and dignity.
How do you show your team you care?
The Best Ways to Show Care To The People On Your TeamBe accepting. When people tell you something, they're often looking for understanding instead of answers. ... Be interested. ... Be a good listener. ... Keep people informed. ... Express concern. ... Show your appreciation. ... Provide opportunities. ... Exhibit trust.More items...
How to inform your coworkers about an illness?
One of the easiest and most direct ways to inform your colleagues about an illness is to send a letter or email message telling a particularly trusted co-worker.
Can you let everyone know about your diagnosis?
It’s fine if you don’t want to let everyone know your diagnosis and feelings. The only thing you need to share with your colleagues, in a professional email, are the facts that may impact their work, due to changes in your schedule or capacity.
Can you say "I'm having health issues"?
If you'd prefer, you can say "I'm having health issues" and not go into specifics.
Do you have to tell your employer about your health?
If you are experiencing a serious health issue, at some point you will have to tell your employer. While you need to provide enough information so that your needs are understood, you don’t want to burden your manager or colleagues unnecessarily with too many personal details.
Decide Who to Tell
If you prefer to only tell a limited amount of people at work about your cancer diagnosis, make sure to tell them to keep your confidence. If you are being selective about who you tell, think about your reasons for sharing your story in the first place.
Decide How to Tell
If only a select few coworkers will be finding out about your diagnosis, you might feel more comfortable telling them one on one over lunch or within the privacy of your office. If it’s a specific department or team you’re telling, it might be easier to gather them together so you can tell them at the same time.
What to Say
Whatever the strength of the bond, it’s natural to feel awkward, sad, fearful, angry and disbelief.
What Not to Say
The list of questions and comments that many people think are helpful — but actually aren’t — is surprising to some. Here, what the experts suggest not saying to a colleague with cancer:
How to communicate effectively with coworkers?
Communicating clearly to your coworkers or clients is essential in any professional setting. As you scroll down, consider your audience—whether it's internal or external . Next, think about the circumstance of your absence . Finally, determine tone and style.
What is the most important thing when someone dies?
The most important thing when someone dies is the safety of you and your family while managing grief. You've got the leeway to keep bereavement leave messages as short as you like.
When talking to an employer, should you cover?
When talking to an employer you should cover: The diagnosis. How your treatment may possibly affect your work. Ways you and your employer can work together to overcome the challenges of working during treatment, or—if you are taking medical or disability leave—the challenges of returning to work after treatment.
What happens if your supervisor doesn't tell you about your diagnosis?
If your supervisor doesn’t inform HR after you disclose your diagnosis, you should. After that, it’s up to you who you would like to tell. Your employer is not allowed to tell other employees about your medical situation, not even if coworkers notice you receiving accommodations and ask about it.
What did Marybeth feel when she heard the word "cancer"?
When Marybeth heard the word “cancer” she felt like the floor had fallen out from under her. She had a million questions. So many, in fact, she was too overwhelmed to ask a single one the day she was diagnosed. However, as she absorbed the diagnosis and read the materials her doctor had given her, she began to have non-medical questions.
How long do you have to report discrimination to the EEOC?
You have 180 days from the date of an incident of discrimination to report it to the EEOC, which is another reason to keep records. Marybeth wasn’t aware of all the protections of the ADA and that those protections continued even after she’d completed her treatments and returned to work full time.
What is the best accommodation for cancer patients?
The most obvious accommodation during and after treatment is time off . Cancer patients should consider not just the time off for surgery and medical appointments, but time to deal with fatigue or secondary illnesses. Some cancer patients request extra breaks during the day to rest or take medicine.
Can an employer counter an accommodation request?
Your employer may counter your requested accommodation with an alternative that is easier for them to implement. Most employers are willing to work with their employees to find an arrangement that works. However, the burden for educating them about your needs and accommodations to support your success may fall to you.
Can you talk about cancer with your boss?
It may be difficult to talk about your diagnosis and expectations with your boss. However, it is almost always the right thing to do to protect yourself. Armed with an understanding of your potential needs and rights, you are in a better position to take control of your cancer and your career.
