We notice it again and again: we are often called about solving sick leave only after something has been going on for a long period of time. And so the costs have already gone up considerably. Sometimes it even involves absenteeism cases that are no longer quite sure how to resolve. A missed opportunity, because using prevention right at the front end to combat absenteeism at an early stage not only results in a loyal, happy employee, but also a saving in the entrepreneur’s wallet.
Absenteeism higher than ever
In short, sick leave is an important issue. Especially now that we see plenty of media reports that absenteeism has not been this high in years. The March FD reports that the increase is due to more flu cases, as well as long-term illness. One writes that psychological complaints often underlie this, associated with a high workload. Experts say an individual approach is best: every employee is different. Add to this the fact that employee absenteeism (according to CBS figures) rose to its highest level since 2000 in quarter four of 2022, and you realize there is work to be done.
Positive sounds are also
“Fortunately, there is also good news to report in these times of rising absenteeism,” said Rik Berghout, founder and owner of Panthion. ‘For example, we notice that larger companies in particular are increasingly taking the lead and taking action at the front of the process. We regularly receive requests to deploy a vitality coach, walking coach or psychologist. About 8 to 10 sessions usually get people a long way and prevent them from dropping out. And that’s great for the employee himself, of course, but also for the employer who contributes to keeping his people sustainably employable with a clear investment in advance. Moreover, the cost of such a number of sessions is often less than an employee who calls in sick for a short or even long period of time. Another factor, which often remains underexposed, is that the employee in question becomes an ambassador for the company. This is because, even when things were not going so well, he was very well supported by his employer. And so the knife cuts several ways.
Stop worrying: there is no point
‘In a previous article, I mentioned that some 40 percent of small and medium-sized business owners are concerned about high staff absenteeism. In it I also shared that 9 out of 10 companies in the Netherlands do not have a human resources department which means that the entrepreneur has to manage it all himself,” Rik continued. ‘And that should be the time to either set up such a department or buy in this knowledge, skill and experience. In our blog that will appear in 2 weeks we will take you into the world of support in this area. Along with real-life stories that will probably seem recognizable to you.’
Get in touch
Would you like to have an earlier conversation about that one case that keeps you from sleeping at night? If so, please contact us in advance. For non-binding advice, a listening ear or an approach that puts you back in control, including in the area of sick leave.
Source: FD
