Commercial launches absence management procedure

Released 04/08/2010

Department absenteeism falls by 14%

One of the UK's largest dealers, Commercial has launched an absence management procedure to support its 130-plus employees and continued commitment to driving efficiency throughout the business.

Following a successful six month trial, which saw absenteeism in one department fall from 20% to six per cent, Commercial will be rolling out the procedure across the company as part of a major middle-management training and development programme.

"If not handled correctly, absenteeism can course significant pressure and indeed stress for all involved," explained Simone Mann, Commercial's co-founding director. "We have a real sense of family here at Commercial and as we continue to expand it is crucial that we have the systems in place that will enable us to keep that open, supportive approach to the business and keep our staff wellbeing at the fore."

The procedure, which includes ‘return to work' (RTW) interviews, has already improved communication within the company and supported employees where ‘fit notes' from doctors have needed to be adhered to.

Staff feedback has been very positive with many now valuing the RTW interviews stating they help reduce the pressure of needing to ‘catch-up' with work following a spell of absence.

Sadie Cooper, recently promoted to purchasing team leader at Commercial, has experienced the benefits firsthand.

"It's a great comfort to know that when you are away from work, for whatever reason, that you are being thought of," explained Cooper. "Purchasing is an incredibly busy department and thanks to the interviews, when you return to work, you can quickly get up to speed with what has been going on in your absence. Your line manager makes sure that you're 100% fit and not returning to work prematurely and that you're happy with the work completed on your behalf while you were away. It's an incredibly reassuring process."

Mann, an ambassador for the continuing improvement and change within the company, is confident that this first phase of training is a very positive step forward to completing other areas of development for the middle management tier.

"Despite harsh economic conditions, we have seen significant growth in the past 18 months," she continued. "This has led to promotion of staff within the company and, as a result, it is important that we equip them with the skills they need to fulfil their roles."

In addition to the implementation of new procedures, Commercial is restructuring its workforce and office layout to further enhance customers' experience of the company. According to Mann, the new formula will "enable speedier responses to queries, make sharing knowledge of customers, services and products easier and encourage a more unified team.

"We have an incredible team here at Commercial," continued Mann. "The atmosphere is contagious and the willing attitude to support each other plays an integral part in making us not just a supplier of choice but an employer of choice too."

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