“If we can do without you for more than 2 weeks, then we can do without you.”

“If we can do without you for more than 2 weeks, then we can do without you.”

This is what my friend was told by his boss when he asked about increasing his vacation time. This guy has been in management for this company for more than 20 years. TWENTY YEARS.

I think he should get more time, but this post isn’t about vacation time.

It’s about how placing a disproportionate value on time in the office leads to a toxic culture. It reduces absenteeism but increases presenteeism.

[If you’re unfamiliar with presenteeism, it’s the act of being physically present at work, but not able/willing to function at full capacity.]

So, how do you know if you’re guilty of behaviors that lead to presenteeism? Watch for these behaviors:

⏱ Habitually praising people for working long hours.

👩‍💻 Not cross training employees. (i.e. Will your payroll cease if Donna isn’t in the office?)

🏅 Giving attendance awards.

😷 Working when YOU are sick, working long hours, or missing out on important family milestones. Actions speak louder than words.

Displaying behaviors and setting up systems that allow people to do their best work is key.

✅ Have you noticed presenteeism in your own life? How did you combat it? If you want to chat more about this topic, you can schedule a free call with me here.