The Write-Up On The Wall

I conducted training for a facility that provided services for people with learning disabilities and mental health issues. New hires were required to undergo a two-week orientation before moving on to their assigned position. Classes included CPR/First Aid, infection control, prevention and management of aggressive behavior, etc.

One new employee was constantly late to class, and not by five minutes, but sometimes an hour or more, missing vital information. I went to his supervisor.

Me: “You need to fire this guy. He is ALWAYS late and is not getting the information he needs. He’s going to be a problem for you and a danger to our clients.”

Supervisor: “No, we need him; we’re short-staffed.”

Me: “Well, you’re not going to have him anyway at this rate. The quicker he’s gone, the sooner you can get a replacement.”

Supervisor: “No, I’m sure it’ll be fine.”

One month goes by.

Me: “How’s [New Hire] doing?”

Supervisor: “Oh, we had to let him go; he was late for every shift.”

Wow, who’d thunk it?