Things Workers Really Say When They’re Running Late
Time Challenged
23% of surveyed workers come to work late at least once a month, and 14% do so at least once a week.
Suspicious Statements
Three out of 10 who have come in late for work said they’ve lied about the reason for their tardiness.
Most Common Reasons Cited for Tardiness
Traffic: 50%, Lack of sleep: 30%, Bad weather: 26%
Reasonable Position
33% of employers surveyed said they have no problem with occasional late arrivals, as long as they don’t develop into a pattern. And 16% said they don’t need employees to be punctual if they still get their work done.
Ultimate Price
41% of employers have fired a staffer for being late.
Outrageous Lateness Excuses: Clean Hit
“I knocked myself out in the shower.”
Outrageous Lateness Excuses: Breakfast of Champions
“I was drunk and forgot which Waffle House I parked my car next to.”
Outrageous Lateness Excuses: Herd Mentality
“A deer herd that was moving through town made me late.”
Outrageous Lateness Excuses: Due Process
“I had to wait for the judge to set my bail.”
Outrageous Lateness Excuses: Mindfully Engaged
“I’m not late … I was thinking about work on the way in.”