We all know that punctuality is important, but how it’s enforced can say a lot about leadership styles and workplace culture. Consider this scenario: A boss declares someone late for walking into a meeting at precisely the start time, insisting, “We had to go by my watch.” It’s a small moment, but one packed with lessons about expectations, communication, and authority.

So, is the boss being overly strict, or does this reflect an important principle about how punctuality works in professional settings? Let’s explore the deeper implications of this interaction.

Why Punctuality Matters

Punctuality isn’t just about being on time; it’s about respecting others’ time. Arriving a few minutes early to a meeting signals readiness and consideration for the group. It allows for settling in, reviewing materials, or even engaging in small talk that helps build relationships.

From the boss’s perspective, the act of arriving at exactly 8:00 a.m. might still disrupt the flow of a meeting, particularly if the expectation was for everyone to be seated and ready at 8:00 sharp. By enforcing this standard, the boss reinforces the importance of preparation and sets the tone for how time is valued within the team.

The “My Watch” Mentality

The idea of “going by my watch” introduces an interesting dynamic. It suggests that the boss views punctuality not just as an individual responsibility but as part of a broader, shared commitment to efficiency and order. However, this approach also raises questions about fairness and communication:

  1. Clarity of Expectations
    If the team isn’t explicitly told that “on time” means arriving early, the boss’s comment may feel arbitrary or unfair. Clear expectations about meeting protocols—such as being seated and ready by the official start time—can eliminate confusion and foster accountability.
  2. Authority and Power Dynamics
    The “my watch” comment underscores the boss’s authority but may also come across as controlling. While leaders set the tone, overly rigid enforcement can alienate employees, making them feel micromanaged rather than motivated.
  3. Building Trust vs. Enforcing Rules
    Trust is built through open communication and mutual respect. A leader who relies on personal interpretations of punctuality risks eroding trust, especially if the rules seem inconsistent or overly harsh.

Is Precision Necessary?

Not all workplaces require military-style punctuality. In creative or flexible environments, arriving right at the scheduled time—or even a few minutes after—might not disrupt productivity. However, in settings where every second counts, such as healthcare or customer service, precision becomes critical. The importance of punctuality depends largely on the nature of the work and the culture of the organization.

Even in less time-sensitive roles, showing up early demonstrates professionalism and readiness. It signals to colleagues and leaders that you value their time as much as your own.

How Leaders Can Approach Punctuality

The way a leader enforces punctuality can shape the team’s dynamics and morale. Here are a few strategies for striking the right balance:

  1. Set Clear Expectations
    Communicate what “on time” means. For instance, does it mean being seated and ready five minutes before the start time? Establishing this ahead of time avoids unnecessary misunderstandings.
  2. Lead by Example
    A punctual leader sets the standard for the team. If the boss routinely arrives late or unprepared, employees may feel less compelled to prioritize punctuality.
  3. Balance Flexibility and Discipline
    Acknowledge that occasional lateness happens, but address chronic tardiness with constructive feedback. Overly rigid enforcement of timing for minor infractions can come across as punitive.
  4. Focus on Impact
    Rather than fixating on the exact moment someone arrives, consider the impact of their timing. Did their arrival disrupt the meeting? If not, it might not warrant a stern remark.

How Employees Can Respond

If you work under a leader with strict punctuality standards, here’s how you can adapt:

  1. Plan for Extra Time
    Aim to arrive early to avoid potential discrepancies in clocks or unexpected delays. This shows respect for the team and avoids unnecessary tension.
  2. Communicate Proactively
    If you’re running late, let the organizer know in advance. Transparency demonstrates accountability and prevents unnecessary frustration.
  3. Clarify Expectations
    If there’s confusion about what “on time” means in your workplace, ask for clarification. This prevents future misunderstandings and shows a willingness to align with expectations.

The Bigger Picture

While the boss in the story may have been technically correct about their definition of punctuality, the interaction raises larger questions about leadership and communication. Is punctuality being used to promote efficiency and respect, or is it a tool for exerting control? And as employees, how do we balance meeting expectations with advocating for fairness?

Ultimately, punctuality is about more than just clocks—it’s about creating a culture of respect, accountability, and mutual understanding. Whether you’re leading a team or contributing to one, recognizing the nuances of time management can help foster a more positive and productive work environment.