Struggling with Enforcing Punctuality at Work: How Should I Approach It?

Dear Seniors,

I would like to address a concern. I have recently joined the IT company, and there seems to be a lack of discipline regarding time and punctuality. My boss has instructed me to enforce discipline in the company. However, I am unsure of how to proceed.

I am considering sending an email to all employees as a first step. Could you advise on the appropriate content for this email?

I appreciate your guidance and support in this matter.

Thank you,
Pooja

Hi Pooja,

You can't force discipline. Read the book titled "Bringing Out the Best in People" by Aubrey C. Daniels. He has nicely described Positive Reinforcements, and I have succeeded many times using this method. I also know how tough it is to convince your colleagues, but it works.

Siva

Discipline is a big subject. There has to be meaning in demanding discipline. In other words, organizations shall look at meaningful discipline.

Let me address the subject of punctuality.

What is punctuality? Organizations must define this first. If you define punctuality as simply coming to the office, then it is not correct. I addressed this issue a few days back in this forum. Punctuality should encompass all areas, including keeping appointments, meeting schedules, delivery schedules, etc.

How will you bring in the culture of punctuality in an organization? That is your question.

Now, I would like to refer to Theory X and Theory Y.

Theory X talks about the whip, and Theory Y talks about people basically wanting to do things.

When you are trying to establish a culture of punctuality in an organization, believe that everyone in the organization wants to be punctual. Build all your exercises around this belief. Have counseling sessions, training programs, and one-on-one discussions with all. Make them feel that it is truly a pride to work in a culture of punctuality. This pride will motivate everyone to arrive on time, deliver on time, and the results will be lasting.

When do we use Theory X? Sometimes, after establishing the culture, you may find the need to use the whip sparingly.

Siva

Am I making sense, or do you need more clarification?

Hi Pooja,

I would like to add something that discipline can't be taught; it's more about your attitude and, especially, the attitude of your top management or seniors. If they exhibit punctuality, for example, then ultimately everyone will follow the same, or at least they would try. The culture of the organization depends heavily on the values and norms that are held. Don't be harsh on your members regarding disciplinary issues. Do everything step by step. You have to consider that it would also be difficult for them to leave their habits, as by nature, man is rigid.

Hopefully, this will provide you with some hints. :)

Hi,

I understand your problem. Well, I am also working in a textiles company in Dubai as an Administrative General Manager. First of all, if you have to maintain discipline, you must set an example in front of everyone that you are perfect. Once you achieve this, you must call all the people whom you want to discipline. Just speak to them very nicely and the main thing you have to do is motivate them. You have to make them realize from within, and it is up to you how you do it because I am not familiar with the atmosphere there. Just give them one chance.

If there is no improvement, speak to them a second time and give them another chance. I know that most people will follow the rules if you motivate them properly. Lastly, if any person is still not up to the mark, I suggest you remove them from the company so that other people can see and become a bit afraid.

This is what my experience says.

The rest is up to you.

All the best.

Thank you,
Rohit