Wanted: Workers Who Show Up on Time

Woody Allen is credited with the famous quote, "Eighty percent of success is just showing up." That's apparently too much to ask from many office workers, according to some employers. In a recent survey, the majority of employers said it was difficult to find reliable, punctual employees.

It seems high unemployment rates don't motivate people to impress employers with their punctuality. The employers said it is harder to find workers who show up on time today than it was four years ago, when jobs seemed to be more plentiful. Another surprising finding from the survey: Employers said it is just as tough to find applicants with basic computer skills today as it was in 2007.

While the survey doesn't explore the reasons for the trend of time-challenged workers, one possibility is that people who find themselves forced to apply for or accept jobs they consider a "downgrade" are less motivated to do their best or impress their new bosses. Of course, this also might be a not-so-subtle way for workers to "get back" at employers they feel treat them badly or don't pay them enough.

How important is punctuality in your workplace? Have you noticed a trend of tardiness among your colleagues, or are you ever late for work?

Image courtesy of buddawiggi