Dealing with employees who are constantly late can be a frustrating. And with good reason. It’s unprofessional, and quite frankly, pretty rude. Discipline can seem like the obvious course of action. But, there are a few alternatives that can help you make the most out of a nasty situation.
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a mandatory 1 hour lunch break around 12 p.m. Is this really the best work scenario for everyone in the department? Dropping everything you’re doing to go on a lunch can kill motivation and productivity. Getting back into your groove can be difficult after a long break and a filling lunch. Some workers may not even need or want a full 1 hour lunch break. Try offering them several shorter “recovery walk” breaks instead. This gives employees the chance to take a break when it’s most comfortable for them to rest their eyes and clear their head. Mix this with a shorter lunch break that satifies your company’s compliance requirements. This is an easy way to improve employee efficiency, attitude, and overall company morale.
You can also try allowing employees to come in to work a little later if it’ll help improve their performance. Try letting them start 30 minutes later each day in exchange for a 30 minute lunch instead of the normal hour.
If adjusting lunch times still isn’t enough, it may be time to change their hours. Sit with them and discuss a work schedule that meets the requirements of both parties. If allowing them to come in an hour later and leave an hour later doesn’t interfere with productivity, give them the option. Some extra time to get ready in the morning and beat the usual traffic can do wonders. Believe me, they’ll appreciate the gesture on your end too.
Of course, flexible hours only work in an environment where the position isn’t needed to tend to phones or interact with customers.
The point I’m trying to make here overall is to place TRUST in the employee. After all, they are your number one asset. Emplower them to somewhat manage their own time rather than dictate it. Some people just work better on their own time. Have the flexibility to meet them halfway and you’ll see their creativity flourish! What good is it to have them at their desk exactly at 8 a.m. if they’re still half asleep killing an hour grabbing coffee and “checking emails”?
