Chronic lateness is an issue many of us face, whether it's from coworkers, staff members, or ourselves. It can be tricky to strike the right balance between being too lax and too strict. In salons, other minor habits that might cause problems, such as being overly chatty, forgetting to enter re-bookings, or dressing inappropriately. However, the key to addressing these issues is communication.
Good, clear communication is essential for training employees, disciplining staff without ruining relationships, and running a successful business. Here's what effective communication looks like when dealing with an employee who's always late:
Lay the ground rules
Ensure your staff understands the expectations you have for punctuality. Make it clear what time they should be in, and be the first to demonstrate adherence to these rules.
Call out the behavior
Address the tardiness by setting up the rules, then follow up quickly and clearly if they've broken those rules. Be firm and non-confrontational, and ensure there's no room for misunderstanding.
Apply it everywhere
Effective communication might feel like confrontation initially, but being firm, polite, and open can help resolve problems quickly. Your staff will appreciate the transparency, making it easier to maintain order and a smooth-running salon.
By establishing clear rules and consistently communicating expectations, you can prevent minor issues from escalating and maintain a harmonious work environment.