Final answer:
A manager should initiate progressive disciplinary procedures for a frequently absent catering employee, which starts with verbal warnings and escalates if necessary. This approach maintains standards and supports improvement in attendance. Ignoring the issue or merely requiring physician's statements would not be effective in addressing the absenteeism.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with a catering employee who is talented but frequently absent, a manager should consider initiating progressive disciplinary procedures. This approach acknowledges the employee's talents and contributions, but also recognizes the importance of consistent attendance. Progressive discipline may start with a verbal warning, then move to written warnings, and potentially escalate to more severe consequences if the behavior does not change. It is important for employees to know that they are expected to show up on time and that they must show up to work every day for their designated shifts, unless they have a valid reason for being absent. Employees should be aware of their responsibility to follow the protocol for reporting time off. The goal is to support the employee in improving attendance while maintaining high-quality customer service.
Ignoring the employee's absence is not advisable as it can lead to operational disruptions and may also affect team morale. Simply requiring a physician's statement might not address the root cause of the absenteeism if it's not health-related. The key is to engage with the employee and understand the reasons behind the absences while enforcing the company's attendance policies fairly and consistently.