SO far, this working year appears to be brighter when it comes to punctuality at the office.

The tighter job market is most likely the reason for this workplace change.

Sixteen per cent of workers admit they arrive late at the office once a week, according to a CareerBuilder survey that questioned more than 5,200 workers. Last year, 20 per cent of respondents admitted to being tardy once a week. And eight per cent of workers say they can’t get to work on time at least twice a week, which decreased from 12 per cent last year.

The top excuses blame traffic, lack of sleep, getting kids ready for school, bad weather, or issues with public transportation, pets or wardrobe.

“Some workers may be more concerned with the nuances of their on-the-job performance these days, resulting in fewer late arrivals,” says Rosemary Haefner, vice-president of human resources.

“Regardless of the economy, though, getting to work on time can be more of a priority in some workplaces than in others. It’s more important for workers to be aware of their company’s tardiness policies and make sure to be honest with their manager if they are going to be late,” he added.

Some employees will not stand for tardiness — 34 per cent of managers have fired a worker for being late.

Survey respondents recall the most ridiculous late excuses used by employees:

* “I got mugged and was tied to the steering wheel of my car.”

* “I saw an elderly woman at a bus stop and decided to pick her up.”

* “My car door fell off.”

* “It was too windy.”

* “I dreamt I was already at work.”

* “I had to go to the hospital because I drank antifreeze.”

* “A roach crawled in my ear.”

* “My dog swallowed my cellphone.”

Workers should try their best to be punctual in the morning. But if you are going to late, don’t lie to your manager. If you use an excuse like the ones listed above, it will be hard for your boss to believe you.

— Creators News Service