10 excuses for cutting out early:

  1. Doctor's appointment. "I have a 4pm appointment, need to leave by 3:30."
  2. Dentist appointment. Same.
  3. Kid's school pickup or event. Real if you have kids.
  4. Sudden migraine. "Just hit me, need to head home."
  5. Stomach issues. "Not feeling great, going to call it."
  6. Car trouble. "Need to deal with my car before traffic."
  7. Plumber / electrician at home.
  8. Family commitment. Vague, brief.
  9. Vet appointment. If you have a pet.
  10. Personal errand requiring office hours. Bank, government office, etc.

How to deliver

  • In advance when possible: "Leaving at 3:30 today for a doctor's appointment."
  • Last-minute when needed: "Headed home, not feeling well."
  • Brief. Don't over-explain.

Avoid

  • Repeating the same reason within the month
  • Leaving at exactly the same time every Friday
  • Being absent later that night on social media (in person)
  • Asking for the early leave during a critical project meeting

When you actually need to leave

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For more: bulletproof excuses to get out of work, reasons to call out of work, excuses to call off work.