Ok so heres my problem I work where theres no power no timeclock and I let my two employees basically work there own hours. I always let them take lunch when they want start when they want. I have one employee who is highly paid to cut scrap I wont say how much but I could hire two guys for what I pay him a week. He isnt really late ever his problem is taking to much time for lunch way ovrr the alloted time. lets put it like this he has taken 2 hour plus lunches this week. I dont usually say anything about it but I am going to change they way I do things come the first of the year I bought an expensive protable time clock. I just want to ask how do u deal with trouble employees who think they work hard but in your opinion are lazy. He hasnt worked a full 40 hour work week in I cant remember how long. he has a new excuse once a week about having to leave early or miss a day all together. it boils down to the fact that he can be a hell of a worker when he works and I like him allot he just doesnt get the fact that he misses to much time. starting on the first 715 to 4 are going to the hours lunch will be 45 mins which I think is fair and after three times of clocking in late I am going to give him three days off and then the next time I am going to fire him. My partner likes him allot to and is getting pevved about his work ethic to. I am gonna give him five unexcused absenses basically unpaid sick days and a week of paid vacation I just want a two week notice on every day he is taking off. I am working on a very strict employee handbook and its time to crap or get off the pot. basically what do u do with an unruly employee who thinks they are worth more then they are. I dont think its to much to ask to work like a champ when you are payed highly. I am done with the excuses and on the verge of firing him. Do any small business owners have a employee handbook and how do u treat them with leaving early or tardiness. Everyone wants a job but not everyone wants to work. the fact is I can train another person and can the problem employee I just don't want it to come that but business is business even if it costs me a friend.