Your business has a busy day ahead, and you’re ready to go. Uh-oh! There seem to be people unexpectedly missing. Now, what will you do? Here’s how you can easily avoid no-call/no-show problems.
Top Ways to Avoid No Call/No Show Problems
Establish a Reasonable Time-Off Policy
Sometimes employees don’t show because they’re irresponsible, but other times they don’t show because they’re overwhelmed. Let’s say someone runs into a legitimate emergency. However, they know if they call in, their supervisor will give them a tough time. What will they do? You guessed it. It’s probably easier for them to deal with the consequences later rather than suffer through an unpleasant conversation now. As a result, try to create an environment that promotes strong attendance while also respecting the personal lives of your team members. After all, everyone needs to take a day off now and then.
Set Schedules in Advance
Many businesses need to assign different shifts every week. Recognize this can be confusing especially if you announce schedules at the last minute. Therefore, put standard procedures in place. Try to release schedules at least a week in advance and preferably on the same day. For example, you could publish Sunday to Saturday schedules the Sunday before. Additionally, post this information where people will be able to find it quickly. While email/texting may be an option for smaller businesses, larger corporations should consider investing in scheduling and shift planning software. Most of these solutions include mobile apps that allow workers to check for updates right off their phones.
Address Problems Individually
When you have a bunch of no-shows, your first reaction may be to reprimand everyone in front of you. Nevertheless, remind yourself, those employees aren’t the problem. Rather than making sweeping announcements that don’t apply to most of your workforce, address situations on an individualized basis. Keep track of each person’s attendance. The first time someone pulls a no call/no show, have an informal conversation. “Is everything alright?” and “Do you know how to call in?” The second or third time, you may choose to intervene with some attendance accountability tips. And if this isn’t successful, clearly explain and establish the consequences. After all, although you’re willing to cut people some slack, ultimately, you need a reliable team.
Have a Back-Up Plan
Despite everyone’s best efforts, things do come up. And unfortunately, even a single missing employee can put your business behind. Thus, have a backup plan in place. Most employment agencies have people on call who can substitute at a moment’s notice. This gives you an extra layer of staffing security, so you don’t have to worry about getting caught shorthanded.
Does Your Company Need Additional Staffing?
Halpin Staffing Services is here for you! Our recruiters place dependable workers with top companies throughout Southeastern Wisconsin and Northeastern Illinois. Halpin offers both workforce management and payrolling to help you optimize productivity without constantly scrambling to find enough coverage. Contact us today to solve your organization’s staffing challenges!