| Abstract: | The master's thesis focuses on absenteeism, that is, employee absence from work, and investigates its causes, forms, and consequences for organizations, individuals, society, and the state. Various factors influencing employee presence and absence are highlighted, such as health issues, working conditions, personal and social factors, and organizational climate. The topic of misuse of sick leave and the importance of clear rules and open communication for its management are also addressed. In Slovenia, absenteeism is monitored using indicators collected by the National Institute of Public Health. The thesis presents different models of absenteeism, including the medical. Deviance, withdrawal, economic, and cultural models, which explain the reasons for absence from work. Research conducted among managerial staff in accounting firms in Slovenia shows that flexible working conditions, such as adaptable working hours and remote work, as well as care for employees' psychophysical well-being, significantly contribute to reducing absenteeism and intentional sick leave. Conversely, overwork and poor work organization increase the risk of absences, including unjustified ones. Furthermore, the role of regular discussions, incentives, and psychological support in improving attendance is emphasized. The thesis also highlights the issue of presenteeism, meaning employees' presence at work despite illness, which can negatively affect their health and productivity. The consequences of absenteeism include disruptions in the work process, increased costs, decreased quality of services, and poorer work atmosphere, all of which affect the competitiveness of companies and society as a whole. At the national level, absenteeism causes additional costs to the healthcare and social systems and reduces economic activity. To effectively reduce absenteeism, it is essential to implement comprehensive measures at various levels: individual, organizational, societal, and governmental. It is crucial to establish a work environment that fosters trust, flexibility, mutual support, and effective leadership. The thesis emphasizes that successful absence management requires coordinated efforts to promote health, work flexibility, and quality working conditions, along with active leadership involvement. Such an approach can improve productivity in the long term, increase organizational success, and contribute to better employee well-being, which is key to the sustainable development of every organizaton. |
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