Punctuality can be a serious problem if it gets out of hand. One-or-two instances of lateness can be forgiven, but when they’re happening on a recurring basis, something needs to be done. It’s important to know exactly how to deal with the situation when it arises. Let’s go through some tips you should follow.
Identify The Issue
Firstly, you need to identify the issue. If you’re struggling to keep a track of your employees, this can easily be managed with apps and software. In fact, there is software on the market that can track punctuality as well as assist in other areas like employee holiday management. If the issue is immediately obvious, there’s nothing left to identify. You know there’s a problem at hand, and now you need to take it further.
Look For Patterns
The next thing you want to do is try and figure out any patterns you can see. If you’ve been tracking punctuality in the past, you should be able to generate some reports. Check how often they’ve been late before, and whether this is a recent occurrence. This will help you to present the facts to them in conversation. They might be tempted to deny it all, but if you’ve got the proof, they can’t.
Confront The Individual
No, you’re not supposed to confront them in the hallway by yelling at them! Instead, ask them if you can discuss the matter in a brief meeting. Make sure it’s private to save any embarrassment. Firstly, you’ve got to get to the root of the problem. Are they coming in late because of an issue at home, for example? Is it a case of feeling unhappy with their job or feeling the stresses of an increased workload? It’s important to obtain the facts.
Define Clear Expectations
Once this part is out of the way, you need to define clear expectations. Assuming that a bigger issue hasn’t arisen, you need to be firm but fair. Make sure the person in question knows the consequences of continuing to exhibit this behaviour. Don’t hold this instance against them, but make it known that it can’t continue in the future. You need to make sure they know exactly what they’re facing to save confusion on their part.
Follow Up As Necessary
Now, all you can do is let them loose. Of course, you’ll be keeping a watchful eye out for their punctuality from now on. It’s important that you don’t get in their way. Let them get on with their normal work. There’s nothing worse than feeling you’re being watched over! After a period of time, call them back in to discuss their progress. If the issue is still present, you need to take further action. Hopefully, though, they’ll have become more punctual, and you’ll have nothing to worry about.
Sometimes, punctuality issues can’t be avoided. You can only do so much to assist the person in question, and dismissal can sometimes be the only solution. Neither of you wants it to come to that, though, so hopefully, that won’t be the case.
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