Improper management of your resources, including time, is like leaving money on the table. How do you manage your company’s time effectively without becoming too overbearing? Is there a sweet spot?

With these tactics, there is! Here’s how you can avoid the most common timekeeping mistakes that companies make.

No. 1: No Supervisory Oversight of the Clock
How can you be sure your timekeeping system is working without a supervisor keeping an eye on it? You might not realize how inefficient your manual clock is in a location where people enter the building from multiple entrances. Especially in our WFH times, timekeeping is changing, and it turns out that paying remote workers by a task-based commission rate instead of an hourly rate can encourage people to be more productive. Take all factors into consideration as you track your company’s timekeeping.

No. 2: Lack of Training
A clock-in, clock-out system might seem simple, but you should always train your employees on how and when to use your timekeeping system. Every circumstance should be covered in the employee handbook, including how to clock in and out; clocking for meals, breaks, or leaving early/late; and whom to talk to after any clocking issues or mistakes.

No. 3: No Published Penalties for Non-Use or Abuse of Clocking
According to the Fair Labor Standards Act, or FLSA, a federal statute requires that employees are paid for all time worked even if it’s not recorded correctly. So, how do you protect yourself from people who claim they worked longer or shorter than claimed?

The answer is creating clear boundaries and consequences for manipulating their timesheet. When employees fail to follow your rules as listed in your employee policy manual, you follow up with disciplinary action such as verbal warnings, written warnings, probation, suspension, and up to termination.

We hope these tips help! If you have any other questions or timekeeping needs, don’t hesitate to join AFEUSA and start using GetPayroll today. As an AFEUSA member, get your exclusive GetPayroll offer today or check out dozens of our other unique member benefits!