Someone cancelled today? Here’s what to do

A same-day call-off isn’t the end of the shift, but every hour that passes narrows your options.

These are steps in order, to follow from the moment someone calls off.

1 The short answer

Count exactly what’s missing, and check your own team first. If no one is free, post a shift with the role, the time and the pay without waiting: the earlier you post, the more time whoever applies has ahead of them.

2 Count what’s missing before you call anyone

• The role. Who exactly cancelled, and what do they do?
• The time. Is the whole shift missing, or part of it?
• How many. Just one, or does today’s pressure need two?

3 Your own team first

Ask your team: can anyone stay two hours longer, or swap their day? But don’t push anyone past what they can do; exhaustion shows in the rush.

4 Post a shift quickly

If no one on your team is free, post a shift with the role, the time, the pay and the number of workers. A clear shift is read in seconds, so anyone who can apply decides fast.

Before you accept, you can see each applicant’s ratings from the venues they have worked with, and the shifts they have completed.

Not on Saiiy yet? Message the Saiiy team first, and the team will help you post it.

So the shift is written right the first time: How to write a clear shift

5 If a Saiiy worker cancelled

The Saiiy team calls you and works out a solution with you. If a worker cancels before the shift, we look for a replacement.

6 For next time

• Know your busy days. A call-off on a busy day is harder than on a quiet one, so know your days in advance.
• Keep your message ready. A message to the Saiiy team with your type of venue, your area and the roles you usually need.

To work out your busy days: Getting ready for rush hours