Sentry Page Protection

Role Play Scenario 10


One of your co-workers at a supermarket, Sam, has returned to work from a 5 day sick absence. They have been in trouble before for using sick leave to go on holiday. A colleague tells you that this is the cause of their recent absence.

In this role play you may speak to Sam.
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​Excellent Student Approach
1.         Introduction
2.         Open Questions
3.         Develop Rapport
4.         Address the issues known
5.         Identify any additional issues
6.         Summary and plan going forward

1 - Ask Sam to speak in private, at a time when they feel comfortable.
2, 3 - Ask how they are doing, and ensure that they are well and healthy, and happy to speak with you. They may mention at this point what they were doing over the past week.
4 - If they claim to have been ill, gently explain that your colleague has said that they were on holiday. Let them explain, or vent frustration - whatever their reaction is, ensure that you seem empathetic.
5 - Tailor your continued response to what they say. If they admit that they went on holiday, then explain why this is unfair on the rest of the team - that it creates additional work for other people. If they claim to have been ill, consider accepting their story, unless other information appears. It’s not your place to act as a detective. You may also wish to mention that you may speak to your other colleague about Sam, and gain an understanding of why they think that Sam has lied about being sick again.
6 - Ensure that Sam is aware of their responsibilities regarding holiday and sick leave (it’s not fair to use sick leave for holiday), ensuring that you don’t appear patronising. Check that they know that you’re trying to look out for the team as a whole, rather than picking on them. Ensure that you leave the discussion on good terms.
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