How Do You Handle Employees Taking Excessive Leaves in a Startup Environment?

I work in an IT company. Here, three employees are in their probationary period now. The company had allowed 5 leaves for them for a year, and any absence exceeding this limit will be considered for pay loss. However, two of them are taking unnecessary leaves even after exceeding the limit for trivial reasons. They are also not submitting the leave letters properly.

Facing Challenges with Employee Leaves

Is anybody else facing such problems? I can ensure they adhere to the rules strictly. However, the challenge here is that this is a startup company focused entirely on products. Finding technically skilled employees for such a startup can be difficult. Unnecessary conversations with the employees might worsen the situation. I am reaching out for advice from my respected seniors before considering termination.

Considering the delicate situation in a startup environment where retaining technically skilled employees is crucial, it's essential to address the issue of unnecessary leaves with a balanced approach to ensure compliance while maintaining a positive work atmosphere. Here are some practical steps to handle this scenario effectively:

1. Review Company Policies:

- Revisit the company's leave policy and ensure clarity on the rules regarding exceeding leave limits, documentation requirements, and consequences for non-compliance.

2. Conduct Informal Discussions:

- Schedule one-on-one meetings with the employees in question to discuss their frequent absences. Approach the conversation with a focus on understanding their reasons for excessive leaves and providing guidance on adherence to company policies.

3. Provide Feedback and Support:

- Offer constructive feedback on the impact of their absences on team productivity and encourage them to communicate any genuine concerns or issues they may be facing. Provide support where needed to address underlying reasons for their behavior.

4. Set Clear Expectations:

- Reinforce the importance of attendance and adherence to company policies. Clearly outline the consequences of continued non-compliance while also highlighting the company's commitment to supporting employees in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

5. Monitor and Document Performance:

- Keep a record of the employees' attendance, communication regarding leaves, and any improvements or lapses. Consistent documentation will be valuable if further disciplinary actions become necessary.

6. Consider Progressive Discipline:

- If the issue persists despite interventions, follow the progressive discipline process outlined in your company policy. This may include verbal warnings, written warnings, and ultimately, termination if the behavior does not improve.

7. Seek HR or Legal Guidance if Required:

- If the situation escalates or legal aspects come into play, seek guidance from HR professionals or legal advisors to ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations in India.

By addressing the issue proactively and providing support to the employees while upholding company policies, you can work towards resolving the challenge of unnecessary leaves in a constructive manner within the startup environment.