Current:Home > MyHow do I handle poor attendance problems with employees? Ask HR -WealthRise Academy
How do I handle poor attendance problems with employees? Ask HR
View
Date:2025-04-13 05:47:52
Johnny C. Taylor Jr. tackles your human resources questions as part of a series for USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world's largest HR professional society and author of "Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”
Have a question? Submit it here.
Question: I manage a medical testing lab. We’re having attendance problems with a couple of our new hires. They’ve been late or have left early, and one even missed a shift. Given that we’re short-staffed, I’m reluctant to move on from them. What can I do to improve attendance accountability? – Marlene
Answer: Addressing attendance issues with new hires can be challenging, especially when staffing is tight. As a leader, it’s important to be intentional about maintaining the integrity of your workplace culture. Here are some strategies you can consider:
◾ Set clear expectations. Clearly outline your company’s attendance policy and expectations. This includes punctuality, absence-reporting procedures, and consequences for excessive absences. Emphasize the importance of regular attendance for team productivity and meeting business goals.
◾ Identify underlying issues. Schedule individual meetings with the employees to discuss their attendance issues. Ask if any personal, family or work-related factors are affecting their punctuality. If personal issues impact their attendance, explore available resources within your organization, such as Employee Assistance Programs or flexible work arrangements.
◾ Document and address consistently. Keep a record of absences and tardiness, including reasons provided by the employees. Implement a progressive disciplinary process, starting with verbal warnings and escalating to written warnings or more severe consequences if the issues persist.
◾ Consider accommodations. If the attendance issues are related to a disability, explore the possibility of reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or similar legislation.
◾ Foster a supportive work environment. Encourage open communication and a supportive work environment where employees feel comfortable discussing challenges or concerns. Prioritize employee well-being by offering resources and support to help employees manage stress and maintain a healthy work/life integration.
Be mindful of the message it sends to your other employees when you fail to hold people accountable. Remember, a balance between empathy and firm expectations is essential. You can create a more productive and positive workplace culture by addressing attendance issues proactively and providing support.
I worked my way up as an import logistics manager; however, I’m on schedule to earn my MBA soon. I’m considering applying for related work in my current organization and looking more broadly into business management tracks, which may mean I started in a more entry-level management opportunity. How can I maximize my experience and education to transition to a higher-level position? – Billie
Your ambition to transition to a higher-level management position is commendable. Given your experience and the value of an MBA, you’re well-equipped to make this leap.
Here are some ways to maximize your career advancement:
◾ Align your skills and experience. Conduct a thorough self-assessment to identify your key strengths, skills, and accomplishments. Research potential roles within your organization and the broader market to determine the required skills and qualifications. Highlight your relevant experience and how your MBA has enhanced your skills and knowledge.
◾ Network strategically. Join industry-specific organizations and attend networking events. Use your MBA alumni network to connect with professionals in your desired field. Actively build and maintain your professional network on LinkedIn.
◾ Seek mentorship. Connect with experienced professionals who can provide guidance, advice, and support. Seek out mentors who have successfully transitioned into similar roles.
◾ Consider additional certifications. Explore industry-specific certifications that can complement your MBA and make you a more attractive candidate.
◾ Showcase your leadership potential. Volunteer for leadership roles in projects or initiatives within your organization. Take on additional responsibilities and seek out opportunities to showcase your leadership skills.
◾ Communicate your “Why.” Clearly articulate your career goals and the reasons that drive you. This will help you stand out in interviews and connect with potential employers.
Following these strategies, you can effectively leverage your MBA and experience to most effectively target a higher-level management position. Persistence, networking, and a clear vision are essential to successful career transitions.
veryGood! (4)
Related
- Rolling Loud 2024: Lineup, how to stream the world's largest hip hop music festival
- Antisemitic incidents in Germany rose by 320% after Hamas attacked Israel, a monitoring group says
- As Dubai prepares for COP28, some world leaders signal they won’t attend climate talks
- Bears vs. Vikings on MNF: Justin Fields leads winning drive, Joshua Dobbs has four INTs
- Pregnant Kylie Kelce Shares Hilarious Question Her Daughter Asked Jason Kelce Amid Rising Fame
- Miley Cyrus Returns to the Stage With Rare Performance for This Special Reason
- Jill Biden unveils White House holiday decorations: 98 Christmas trees, 34K ornaments
- ‘Past Lives,’ Lily Gladstone win at Gotham Awards, while Robert De Niro says his speech was edited
- Intel's stock did something it hasn't done since 2022
- Jenna Lyons’ Holiday Gift Ideas Include an Affordable Lipstick She Used on Real Housewives
Ranking
- Nevada attorney general revives 2020 fake electors case
- Indonesia opens the campaign for its presidential election in February
- Reba McEntire gets emotional on 'The Voice' with Super Save singer Ms. Monét: 'I just love ya'
- Brazil’s Lula picks his justice minister for supreme court slot
- Which apps offer encrypted messaging? How to switch and what to know after feds’ warning
- Israel-Hamas cease-fire extended 2 days, Qatar says, amid joyous reunions for freed hostages, Palestinian prisoners
- Ukraine spy chief’s wife undergoes treatment for suspected poisoning with heavy metals
- Russian court extends detention of Wall Street Journal reporter Gershkovich until end of January
Recommendation
Justice Department, Louisville reach deal after probe prompted by Breonna Taylor killing
NHL expands All-Star Weekend in Toronto, adding women’s event, bringing back player draft
Peru’s top prosecutor blames President Boluarte for deaths of protesters as political crisis deepens
'I'm home': CM Punk addresses WWE universe on 'Raw' in first appearance in nearly 10 years
Newly elected West Virginia lawmaker arrested and accused of making terroristic threats
Israel-Hamas cease-fire extended 2 days, Qatar says, amid joyous reunions for freed hostages, Palestinian prisoners
Brazil’s Lula picks his justice minister for supreme court slot
Illinois man wins $25K a year for life from lottery ticket after clerk's lucky mistake