What is Absconding?
Absconding from work is a situation in which an employee fails to report to work for several days in a row without informing managers, peers, or anyone else in the organisation. When an employee is deemed to be an absconder, the company may ethically decide to terminate the employee without notice or proper exit procedures. Every company has its own policies in place for evading employees.
Why do employees abscond from work?
When an employee feels extremely uncomfortable discussing his impending departure with his supervisor, HR, or other senior employees, he decides to leave. Regardless of the reason, an absconding employee indicates a serious gaps in communication within the company.
Other reasons to abscond from work could be health issues, conflicts at the workplace, disagreement with the management, less salary, etc.
What are the measures to stop an absconding employee?
Most companies follow a procedure in which they send at least two letters informing the employee that he is absconding and that his services may be terminated if he does not report by a certain date. Employers should also communicate the company's policies and expectations to employees clearly, including the consequences of absconding. This can help employees understand the importance of giving notice and the consequences of not doing so.
Organizations must use legal contracts, such as employment contracts, that specify the terms and conditions of employment, including notice periods, to ensure that employees understand their obligations and responsibilities.
Employers should promote employee engagement and create a positive work culture to increase job satisfaction and reduce the likelihood of employees absconding.
Difference between Resignation, Termination, and Absconding
A resignation occurs when an employee decides to leave an organisation. When an employer decides to breach the employment contract, this is referred to as a termination. Absconding from work occurs when an employee decides to leave the organisation without tendering his resignation or following the proper separation procedure.
What disciplinary action can be taken against an employee for absconding?
Dismissal is the most severe disciplinary action that can be taken against a problem employee. Only the most serious offences involving integrity are subject to this punishment. Dismissal and discharge both result in employee separation from the organisation. Dismissal, on the other hand, carries a harsher penalty than a discharge.
