Question: How to reduce absenteeism?

Answer:

• Be sure attendance expectations are clearly set: Some absences and tardiness can be attributed to simple misunderstandings about the time work should begin. The solution may be as simple as creating a clear attendance policy if one does not already exist. Setting expectations also requires clear communications about the policy and the repercussions of absences.

• Enforce the attendance policy consistently: This is more difficult than it sounds. It can be tempting to allow more absences than the attendance policy outlines when employees are facing difficult situations. While an employer is, of course, free to do so, it’s better to have a policy that has flexibility built into it so that it can be implemented consistently and not incite claims of favoritism or discrimination when it’s applied differently for different individuals.
• Ensure all employees know what to do when they need to be late or miss a day: Workers should know when and who to call and what information needs to be provided. They should also understand what documentation, if any, they will be required to provide to the employer upon return (e.g., a doctor’s note).