You have decided to wait until her return to deal with Joan.
In discussion with Joan about her series of absences which of the following approaches would you take now?
Which of the steps listed below would you take?
Open each one in turn and decide which to take in response to the problem above. Use the link in your chosen response to see the consequence of your action.
Explain to her the importance of good attendance to the efficiency of the department. Point out what would happen if everyone were absent for a long weekend starting on the Friday and even extending it to the Monday too. Make it clear that you want her to try to do better.
Tell her that her personal problems are her own, but that efficiency is your business. Tell her that she must improve or consider leaving.
Wait until Joan brings up the matter of absences, so as not to embarrass her.
Ask her what difficulty she is having.
Be friendly but tell her that you are going to place a warning letter in her HR file that states that she must improve the following month.
Tell Joan that she is dismissed.