Video:How to Implement Absenteeism Policies

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Transcript:How to Implement Absenteeism Policies

Hi! This is Meghan Lynn Allen for About.com, and today we're talking about how to implement absenteeism policies.

Clear Absentee Policies Help the Company Thrive

Although every employee is bound to be absent one time or another, absenteeism can be a huge detriment to your company or your office. Be sure you have a strict and well-understood policy in place so everyone is on the same page.

The policy is usually tied to the company's attendance policy, which should also be in writing and on record - perhaps handed out to every new employee when they go through orientation. And that policy could result in termination in severe cases of absenteeism.

All Employees Should Have a Clear Understanding of the Absenteeism Policy

Avoid writing policies for every contingency. You want to make sure that your policy leaves room for managerial discretion. Have clearly stated policies - in writing - that provide structure to the absenteeism policy. You might want to run your policy by your company's legal department or HR department. And give this policy to every employee at orientation - and you want to think about giving it out yearly. Employees don't always remember what they signed off on one, three, or five years ago.

Evaluate the Absenteeism Policy

Depending on where you're located, part or all of your absenteeism policy might be required by law. So mention that right up front on the cover of your absenteeism policy. And when it's distributed, make sure that every employee signs off on receiving it. You'll want one copy for them and one copy for the company. It's usually kept in their permanent file in human resources.

Remember that your company's absenteeism policy, not only keeps everyone on the same page, but prevents unfair treatment and favoritism. However, keep an eye out for trends in your work culture and employee absenteeism as a whole. You can always make changes to that policy, update it and hand it out to employees and every staff member.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the web at About.com.