When you arrive late for work, it's often due to circumstances beyond your control, such as traffic or an unexpected snag in your routine. The office you work for may tolerate being late for yourself several times; but some companies have strict punctuality policies. Whatever the reason for the delay, it is important to communicate with the supervisor in the office and express your regret. Apologize for being late for work by saying you're sorry with an honest and acceptable explanation. If the offense was particularly bad, you may need to write or email afterwards to provide an explanation.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Assessing the Situation
Step 1. Measure how late you will arrive
Depending on the job, being a few minutes late may not be that much of a problem. However, if the time is longer, you may need to call or apologize when you get to the office.
Step 2. Determine how important your punctuality is
For example, if you have a large meeting to attend, it may be more important for you to arrive on time. In addition, some jobs pay more attention to punctuality than others.
Step 3. Call ahead
If you're going to be more than 5 minutes late, it's probably best to call ahead of time. Let your boss know that your arrival will be delayed, and let them know how much longer you will be arriving.
Method 2 of 3: Apologizing in person
Step 1. Apologize sincerely
If you're not being sincere, your boss will notice it right away. Before apologizing, make sure you are truly sorry.
One way to show that you are being sincere is to not belittle an apology. Don't laugh or make jokes when apologizing
Step 2. Notice what the apology is for
Your boss may not understand why you are suddenly apologizing because he or she may not have noticed that you were late. Therefore, be specific.
For example, you could say, "I want to apologize for being 15 minutes late to work today."
Step 3. Make an honest apology
Give a valid reason why you are late, unless it is not a work-related reason. The more complicated the story you are trying to make up, the more likely your boss will think that you are lying. Plus, there's always a way for lies to be exposed. However, keep it brief.
- For example, you might say, "I'm sorry I'm 15 minutes late. My child is sick when I leave the house, and I have to make an appointment."
- However, avoid excuses if they feel too silly or inappropriate for the job. For example, if you show up late because your hair is looking bad, that's probably not something you want to talk about at the office. It's better not to give an excuse than to lie.
Step 4. Realize that you know being late is wrong
You need to make sure your boss knows that you are aware that delays can cost the company. At the very least, you can't do the job as you promised. At worst, you could lose clients for the company.
For example, you could continue your apology by saying, "I know this company puts punctuality for good reason, and I'll try to be punctual in the future."
Step 5. Say, "Thank you"
If your boss doesn't fire you right away (which can happen in some job positions), show your gratitude by saying thank you. For example, you could say, "I appreciate you giving me another chance."
Step 6. Don't make excuses
If your boss tries to blame you for showing up late, don't make excuses. Let the boss talk without interrupting and make sure he or she knows you understand the consequences of arriving late.
Step 7. Don't interrupt the meeting to apologize
If you're going to a meeting first, it's a good idea to come in and join in, as quiet as possible. Don't interrupt the meeting to apologize. Wait until the meeting is over.
Step 8. Avoid arriving late at a later date
Of course, everyone can be late every now and then. However, if you are very late, your boss will notice. No matter how sincere the apology, arriving very late shows that you are not truly sorry for what you did by repeating the same mistakes over and over again.
Method 3 of 3: Writing an Apology Letter
Step 1. Know when an apology letter or email is appropriate
If you're really late, you may need to switch to writing an apology letter or email. Another reason that might make you choose this method is if your delay is causing major problems for the company, such as losing a client.
Step 2. Keep the letter formal
That is using the address and date at the top. Start with your name, address, and email at the top. At the bottom, write the date. Under the date, add your employer's name, work address, and email.
Step 3. Write the opening with "Dear"
The safest way for any company letter is to open the letter with the word "Dear". If you usually call your boss by his first name, it's okay to include his first name. Otherwise, you should use "Mom" or "Mr".
Step 4. State the reason for writing the letter
Start by stating why you are writing the letter. Write down the date and time you were late, and why.
For example, you might say, "I'd like to apologize for coming to work 2 hours late on Friday, September 4, 2015. There's a crisis at home that I can't avoid. how sorry I am."
Step 5. Show that you understand the implications for the company
Next, you need to show that you understand why your mistake was a bad thing. Acknowledge what you did to the company.
For example, you might write, "I know my tardiness has cost the company. I missed a customer meeting, and although I plan to replace it, I know this has cost the company a bit of credibility."
Step 6. Show that you have plans for the future
End the letter by stating that you plan to avoid this problem in the future. Show that you have taken steps to prevent this from happening.
For example, you might write, "I know you expect better from your employees, and I've taken steps to ensure this situation doesn't happen again. I've asked other family members to be available should another similar situation arise, so I can come at a later time."
Step 7. Show your gratitude
Always end with a thank you. You need to let your boss know that you are grateful for every second of the opportunity he or she gives you.
For example, you could say, "I appreciate that you understand, and I'm grateful for one more opportunity to prove my loyalty to the company."
Step 8. End with "Sincerely"
Sign the letter with "Sincerely". If you're going to print the letter, leave space for your signature and place your name below it in typing. If you're going to compose an email, just type your name in.
