Can You Cover My Shift?

The task

You work at a restaurant, and you are scheduled to work next Saturday. Something important has come up, and you need a coworker to take your shift. Write an email to a coworker in about 150-200 words. In your email, do the following:

• Explain why you need someone to cover your shift.
• Give the details of the shift.
• Offer something in return.

Length

150–200 words

Time

27 minutes

Question

14 of 15

Hi Marco, I hope your week is going well. I'm writing to ask if you could possibly do me a big favour. My sister is graduating from nursing school in Saskatoon next Saturday, and my parents have just told me they've booked a family dinner for that evening. I missed her last big event because of work, so I'd really hate to miss this one too. The problem is that I'm scheduled to work the closing shift that day, from 2:00 to 10:00 p.m. It's usually fairly quiet until the dinner rush, and the main extra job is restocking the bar fridge before close. Our manager has already said the swap is fine as long as someone experienced covers it, and you're the first person I thought of. In return, I'd be glad to take one of your shifts whenever you need, whether it's an early morning or a Sunday. I know you were hoping to have a weekend off for your hockey tournament next month, so maybe that would work. No pressure at all if you already have plans. Just let me know by Wednesday if you can. Thanks a lot, Jasmine

Why this answer works

• The reason is personal and specific (a sister's graduation dinner), and the detail about missing her last event explains why it matters so much.
• The shift paragraph gives exact times, the extra duty and the manager's approval, so the coworker has everything needed to decide.
• The register suits a coworker: friendly and informal but considerate, with a thoughtful offer linked to Marco's hockey tournament and a polite deadline.