Question:
I have a great team, but one employee consistently arrives late. It’s starting to affect team morale because others see it as unfair. What’s the best way to address this situation without demotivating the employee or escalating tension?”
Answer:
Great question! Addressing tardiness effectively involves a balance of clear communication and supportive management. Here’s a simple yet effective approach:
- Have a Private Conversation: Schedule a one-on-one meeting with your employee. Approach it positively and professionally. For example: “I’ve noticed you’ve been coming in later than scheduled. Is everything okay? Is there anything we can do to support you better?”
- Clarify Expectations: Remind the employee of company policies and why punctuality is important—not just for productivity, but for fairness within the team. Ensure they clearly understand the expectation moving forward.
- Discuss Potential Solutions: Identify the root cause. Maybe there’s an external factor, such as childcare, transportation, or health issues. Consider solutions like a flexible schedule, temporary accommodations, or resources the company might offer.
- Set Goals and Follow Up: Agree on achievable goals (e.g., arriving on time consistently for the next month) and schedule check-ins to assess progress.
- Document and Monitor: Keep notes of your discussions and agreed-upon actions. If tardiness continues despite clear communication and reasonable accommodations, documented conversations will help if more formal action is required.
By approaching the issue constructively and compassionately, you can often resolve the matter positively for everyone involved.
Key Takeaway: Clear communication, empathy, and structured follow-up are key to addressing employee punctuality issues effectively.
Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
Sign-up HERE and Save $200!
- Boss Calls™ – Access to EVERY Boss Call™ – Past & Future.
- HelpDesk for HR VAULT – Access all 15 of our proprietary tools and applications to simplify your workday.
- Forms, Docs, Policies and Procedures Library – 700+ samples you can download and edit to fit your needs.
- U.S. ePoster Club – Download state, city, and local posters for all 50 states & D.C.
- Same-day email support – Write to our team of SPHR and SCP professionals with all your HR questions.
