Employees are consistently late returning from breaks. What should the Dietitian do first?

When addressing the issue of employees consistently returning late from breaks, the most effective first step is to meet with all employees as a group and solicit recommendations for improvement. This approach encourages open communication and gives employees an opportunity to express their perspectives regarding break times and schedules. Engaging employees in the problem-solving process can lead to valuable insights and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among the staff.

By involving employees, the Dietitian can gain a better understanding of the reasons behind the tardiness, potentially identifying issues such as inadequate break duration or timing conflicts with their workflow. This collaborative approach can also improve team morale and enhance communication within the workplace.

While other options may address the problem in various ways, such as instituting a time-tracking system or disciplinary measures, these methods can create a more negative and punitive atmosphere. Analyzing activities for optimal break times could be beneficial, but it may not fully address the underlying reasons for the tardiness unless employees' input is considered. Thus, starting with group discussions allows the Dietitian to create a more effective and supportive environment for resolving the issue.