AWOL
Absent With Out Leave, AWOL
Absent Without Leave (AWOL), also known as Absent Without Permission (AWP), is an unauthorized absence from work. It occurs when an employee fails to report to work or leaves their job without prior notification or permission from their employer.
Employees can face serious consequences due to AWOL. Disciplinary action, reputational damage, wage loss, and even legal penalties are some outcomes. Employers should take steps to prevent AWOL by creating a positive work environment, establishing clear policies, providing open communication channels, offering support services, and monitoring attendance patterns.