Addressing Employee Attendance Issues: A Guide for Employers

, by Stephanie Messier | Dealing with Difficult Employees|Work Environment and Policies

In times of uncertainty and change in the workplace, attendance issues often increase, and they need to be effectively addressed to maintain not only team productivity but also team morale.

Understanding the Root Cause

The first step in tackling attendance issues is understanding the root cause through open dialogue with the employee. Begin by acknowledging that you’ve noticed a pattern in their absences and express your desire to discuss it. This initial conversation should be approached with empathy and compassion, as the employee may face personal challenges that contribute to their frequent absences. Often, this supportive approach can be enough to address the problem.

Steps to Address Persistent Attendance Challenges

If attendance issues persist after your first conversation, I would like to point out that taking a more direct approach is important. Here are some steps to guide your discussion:

1. Express Concern: Communicate your concern about the ongoing attendance issue and its impact on the team. Be specific about the consequences, including the number of absences or instances of lateness, and highlight any patterns, such as frequent absences on Mondays or Fridays. This information can be revealing for the employee and may help them understand the broader implications of their attendance.

1. Refer to Policies: If your organization has a sick day or attendance policy, refer to it during your discussion. Explain key points, including the total sick day allotment and any relevant guidelines. This helps set a framework for expectations moving forward.

1. Set Clear Expectations: Clearly outline your expectations regarding attendance from now on. Recap the key discussion points in writing to ensure clarity. Your goal is to address the concern formally and emphasize the importance of reliability. Specify when employees are expected to be in the office and how they should remain accessible when working virtually.

1. Prepare for Life’s Challenges: Recognize that absences and lateness may still occur due to life’s unpredictability. Set expectations for how employees should promptly notify you of absences or delays. This proactive communication will help you manage expectations and plan accordingly.

Addressing attendance issues requires an empathetic approach. Employers can foster a culture of reliability by understanding root causes, expressing concern, referring to policies, and setting clear expectations. While challenges may arise, open communication and commitment to resolving them can cultivate a more engaged workforce. Let’s create an environment where employees feel supported, ultimately benefiting the team.