In Uganda, Kampala City is known for its traffic jams, especially during peak hours when it can take hours to get from one place to another.

As a result, it is not uncommon for employees to be late for work, citing traffic jams as an excuse.

Peter Kakuru, a human resources expert, says traffic jams should never be an excuse for being late at work, adding that even when it’s the first time using the route, being late for work or an appointment should never be blamed on traffic jams.

He described this as very unprofessional because when you are late for work, you are essentially telling your employer that your time is not as important as theirs. This can create a negative impression and make it difficult to get ahead in your career.

“Being late for work can disrupt the workflow of a team. This can lead to mistakes, missed deadlines, and frustration among co-workers,” said Kakuru.

However, in some cases, traffic jams may be unavoidable, but there are several things you can do to reduce the chances of being late for work.

He advised that one can utilize technology and leverage navigation apps to receive real-time updates on traffic conditions since it can help you to either leave home much earlier or choose alternative routes and avoid the worst traffic spots.

“Leaving early seems like a no-brainer, but it is important to give yourself plenty of time to get to work so that you can reach it in time,” Kakuru advised.

According to him, it is also critical to apologize to your supervisor and co-workers or explain the reason for your tardiness.

Punctuality is a reflection of one’s professionalism, reliability, and commitment to their job, and by employing effective strategies to navigate traffic-related challenges, employees can ensure they are punctual.