Employee Absenteeism

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We all have been absent from work for one reason or another. Some are absent more than others, but when it takes place on a regular basis then absenteeism is a noticeable problem for that company. Absenteeism can defined as habitual absence from work, thought to reflect employee demoralization or dissatisfaction. Employee absenteeism is a costly problem for almost all employers. The definition of absenteeism, its causes, its affects on productivity, and its costs in terms of finances and administrative effectiveness are quite clear, the challenge is in taking affirmative action to control it. People can be absent from work for a number or reasons, some of them for a very good reason, but whatever the reason, absence is costly and disruptive and needs to handled with skill, understanding and confidence.

What causes employees to skip work? Absenteeism is one of the most serious problem facing employers in today’s workplace. Employers must be able to identify what is causing their employees to miss work in order for them to find a solution. The reasons for the absences can be divided amongst two categories, internal (within the individual) and external (within the company). Internal causes can include serious accidents and illnesses, transportation problems, stress, low morale, poor physical fitness, inadequate nutrition, and personal problems. External causes range from poor working conditions, boredom on the job, low morale, lack of job satisfaction, guaranteed salary, and workload. As we can see causes of absenteeism fluctuate and whether they are legit or not, they very much carry on.

Absenteeism, no matter what the cause, imposes losses on the employer who is also not at fault. The damage suffered by the employer must be weighed. What are some of the costs of absenteeism? Three categories in for which the costs can be identified in are productivity, financial, and administrative. Decrease in productivity will unquestionably present itself. Employees will have to carry the extra workload or support new or replacement staff to cover down on the absentees. Then, employees will be required to train and orientate new or replacement workers. Staff morale will suffer since some employees will be working harder and maybe longer. Employee service will be affected as well, since they might not have the energy to take the workload of the missing employees. Fina...

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