HOW TO RESPOND TO HIGH EMPLOYEE ABSENTEEISM Absenteeism

HOW TO RESPOND TO HIGH EMPLOYEE ABSENTEEISM

Absenteeism Ø Absenteeism disrupts the flow of work Ø costs the company money. Ø It lowers productivity and increases everyone else’s workload Ø It can precipitate a sour atmosphere in the workplace.

Absenteeism • Step 1 Ø Write a company absenteeism policy Ø Include the types of absences that are allowed Ø Proper procedure for notifying the employer Ø Number of allowed absences and penalties for breaking the policy Ø Address missing the entire day, as well as late arrivals or leaving early. Ø Give all employees a copy of the policy so they are aware of the expectations and get them to read and sign a copy which is placed on their file.

Absenteeism • Step 2 ØMake sure your policy complies with the law

Absenteeism • Step 3 ØTrack employee absences, including lateness and record. ØKeep the records on file in case an employee is termination for excessive absences. ØThe record and your documented absenteeism policy may help you legally if the employee accuses you of unfairly terminating them.

Absenteeism • Step 4 ØSpeak privately with specific employees who exhibit issues with absenteeism. ØRefer to the company's policy and their specific attendance record. ØAsk about help they may need to resolve issues that are affecting their work attendance.

Absenteeism • Step 5 ØFollow the specified consequences you outlined in your absenteeism policy ØDocument each consequence as evidence that you gave the employee chances to correct the problem before terminating them.

Absenteeism • Step 6 ØMeet with the employees in general if absenteeism is a widespread problem. ØDiscuss your concerns about attendance and ask for suggestions to improve the overall work environment while reducing absenteeism

Absenteeism • Step 7 ØAssess your Management Style ØOne of the more common reasons for employee dissatisfaction is management style. ØCould your style be encouraging employees to harbor grudges or lose morale? ØStep back and assess what you can do differently. Is your open door policy really that open? ØDo employees really feel valued?

Absenteeism • Step 8 ØConsider Introducing Incentive Plans ØWhile there are no guarantees, this can increase morale and productivity. ØRecognize the valuable role loyal staff play in your business and reward those with exemplary attendance records.

Absenteeism • Step 9 ØTerminating Repeat Offenders ØTermination may be your only option. ØFollow your HR policy to the letter