Question

Joan, an employee of Great American Market, was warned about her excessive absenteeism several times, both verbally and in writing. The written warning included notice that "further violations will result in disciplinary actions," including suspension or discharge.

A short time after the written warning was issued, Joan called work to say she was not going to be in because her babysitter had called in sick and she had to stay home and care for her young child. Joan's supervisor, Sylvia, told her that she had already exceeded the allowed number of absences and warned that if she did not report to work, she could be suspended. When Joan did not report for her shift, Sylvia suspended her for fifteen days.

In a subsequent hearing, Joan argued that it was not her fault that the babysitter had canceled, and protested that she had no other choice but to stay home. Sylvia pointed out that Joan had not made a good faith effort to find an alternate babysitter, nor had she tried to swap shifts with a co-worker. Furthermore, Sylvia said that the lack of a babysitter was not a justifiable excuse for being absent.

Questions:

1. Was the suspension fair?
2. Did Sylvia act responsibly?
3. Should Joan be fired?
4. Should the babysitter be fired?
5. Was Sylvia fair in her actions?
6. Is there ever a solution for working mothers?
7. Should working fathers take turns staying home?

Answer 1

a)The suspension was fair as Joan had ample amount of time to find a permanent solution to her problems as well as arrange for alternates and not be dependent on one babysitter.

b)Sylvia acted as per laws but the punishment of 15 days was far excessive as this will result in loss of wages for Joan. A simple suspension of one-two days may have done the trick.

c)As far as possible, Joan should be allowed to find a permanent solution but a time frame should be provided to her. It should be made clear to her that regular absenteeism won't do for the company and it is up to her to find a permanent solution before the company fires her.

d)The baby sitter should not be fired as she called in sick.

e)Sylvia's punishment was excessive. SHe could have suspended Joan for a day or two. SUspending Joan for 15 days won't improve her productivity.

f)Yes, there are many solutions now for working mothers where companies provide daycare facilities. Also, private daycare centres are there.

g) There cant be a scenario where mother and fathers have to take turn as this will result in absenteeism from both. Instead a more permanent solution should be chalked out.