Were you the kid in school with perfect attendance? 

I envied them.  Those kids were rare, only one or two in each class.  They got accolades and a nice certificate signed by the principal, just for showing up!  There was one girl in my elementary school that did not miss one day from First Grade to Sixth Grade!  It was deemed quite an accomplishment, but as a child I wondered why it was such a big deal.

I learned later that children with perfect attendance statistically do better in school.  They have a significantly lower rate of ever failing a class.  They have a much higher high school graduation rate.

What does this have to do with the workforce?

Showing up for work, ready to work, is vital for success.  Chronic absenteeism is bad for the entire organization.  When an employee does not show up for work, the manager shifts his or her focus from productive activities to shuffling the schedule, or re-assigning duties to compensate for the missing employee.  Co-workers are burdened by the extra work hours and/or the extra duties brought about by a no-show.

Chronically absent employees tend to have lower productivity rates.  There is also a propensity to have a poor attitude.  Neither of these traits do well for job security or advancement.

What can you do? 

If at all possible, show up for work.  If you must be absent, give as much notice as possible so you, your manager, and co-workers have time to plan.  Be conscientious of getting as much work done as possible to prepare for your absence.

No one can plan for every instance which could cause you to miss work.  Managers and supervisors should have a plan in place to minimize disruption in the event of any employee missing work.  Cross-train employees and have a solid relationship with a reputable staffing agency.

Perfect attendance is rare.  Planning for absenteeism and working as a team can minimize disruptions and stabilize productivity.