Where are you when the meeting is supposed to start:
Are you at the table, pencil poised?
Racing out of the restroom, pocketing your comb?
Or are you just getting into the car, cell phone pressed to your ear?
If you're not at the table, you're one of the 15-20 percent of employees who are consistently late. A whopping 81 percent of meetings start behind schedule, according to a Blue Jeans Network study, costing the economy billions. And it only takes one punctually challenged individual to delay a meeting.
But your lateness does more than waste time and money. Intentionally or not, it sends a signal that you think your time is more valuable than that of others.
Worse, your lack of punctuality makes others think you are disorganized. Inefficient. Self-important. Rude.
And every one of these is bad for your career.
Why are you so late?
Chronic lateness can have several reasons. Sometimes it happens because you are trying to accomplish too much. Or because you fear being early. Some need the adrenaline hit of racing the clock to motivate them.
Some even think lateness makes them look important. (They're wrong.) But even if your reasons stem from good intentions, the result is bad. Here's how to change.
Finally, remember the stakes. Remind yourself that your good reputation is your primary asset, and that each time you are late, you put it at risk. That'll help you keep your priorities in order. And maybe, just maybe, it'll keep you on time.