1. It's not really a benefit if you don't use your paid sick leave when you're actually sick. Use the benefits or you might as well not have them! 2. You are less likely to be productive when illness reduces your ability to think and concentrate, so in those cases you're not adding much value to the company by going in when you're sick. 3. If you get your co-workers sick (especially if it happens repeatedly), you actually cost the company money rather than make a positive contribution by going in. And, as you noted, it can irritate your colleagues, which generally detracts from a good work atmosphere even when everyone is healthy. Part of the decision is and should be a consideration of how your behavior affects your colleagues. Wait until you're not contagious! 4. If you simply must work while sick, maybe telecommuting will at least deal with #3. Obviously, this is not possible for some jobs, and may be difficult if you didn't already bring stuff home with you. 5. You risk compromising your own health if you're not at least mostly recovered before you go back. Is that worth it if, say driving to work while you feel horrible increases your chances of being in a car crash?
My thoughts on when to stay home sick
1. It's not really a benefit if you don't use your paid sick leave when you're actually sick. Use the benefits or you might as well not have them!
2. You are less likely to be productive when illness reduces your ability to think and concentrate, so in those cases you're not adding much value to the company by going in when you're sick.
3. If you get your co-workers sick (especially if it happens repeatedly), you actually cost the company money rather than make a positive contribution by going in. And, as you noted, it can irritate your colleagues, which generally detracts from a good work atmosphere even when everyone is healthy. Part of the decision is and should be a consideration of how your behavior affects your colleagues. Wait until you're not contagious!
4. If you simply must work while sick, maybe telecommuting will at least deal with #3. Obviously, this is not possible for some jobs, and may be difficult if you didn't already bring stuff home with you.
5. You risk compromising your own health if you're not at least mostly recovered before you go back. Is that worth it if, say driving to work while you feel horrible increases your chances of being in a car crash?
Steve