Twenty percent of workers say they arrive late to work at least once a week, up from 15 percent last year, according to a survey by CareerBuilder.com. Twelve percent of workers admitted that they are late at least twice a week.
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Download NowThis survey included more than 8,000 workers and was conducted online between November 12 and December 1, 2008.
Traffic was the most frequently cited reason for being late to work (33 percent), followed by lack of sleep (24 percent), getting kids ready for school or day care (10 percent). Other common reasons included public transportation, wardrobe issues, or dealing with pets.
"While some employers tend to be more lenient with worker punctuality, 30 percent say they have terminated an employee for being late," said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources for CareerBuilder.com. "Workers need to understand their company's policies on tardiness and if they are late, make sure they openly communicate with their managers. Employers have heard every excuse in the book, so honesty is the best policy."