Are "double point days" a real thing at Walmart, or is it all just a misunderstanding? The truth is, the concept of "double point days" is largely a myth, overshadowed by the importance of "key event dates" and the policies surrounding them.
The workplace at Walmart, like any large retail environment, is governed by a set of rules, policies, and procedures designed to ensure smooth operations and fairness for all employees. One area of constant discussion, often fueled by word-of-mouth and varying interpretations, revolves around attendance and how absences are handled. Specifically, the terms "double point days" and "key event dates" frequently surface in these conversations. However, understanding the nuances of these concepts is crucial for employees to avoid confusion and potential penalties.
The central point to grasp is this: "Double point days" as a formalized system, where points for absences are automatically doubled on certain days, doesn't exist in Walmart's official policies. Instead, the focus is on "key event dates." These are specific days deemed particularly important for the store, usually due to high customer traffic, special sales, holidays, or other significant events. This is where the attendance policy becomes more stringent, but even here, the "double" aspect is not as straightforward as it might seem.
So, how do these key event dates actually work? The rules are, in essence, quite simple. A key event date designates a day as crucial to the store's operation. If an associate misses their entire scheduled shift on a key event date, and they don't use Paid Protected Time Off (PPTO) to cover at least half of their shift, they receive one additional point for the absence. This point is in addition to the usual points assigned for missing a shift. The term "double" is somewhat misleading here, because it isn't a blanket doubling of all points. The primary consequence of key event dates is a heightened awareness of attendance and the potential for a more significant penalty for those who miss an entire shift without adequate coverage.
It's important to differentiate between the perception of how these dates work and the reality. Misinformation spreads easily, leading to confusion about the true impact of missing work on a key event date. Some associates might believe that using double the amount of PPTO is necessary on these days, for example. This is incorrect. The amount of PPTO required to cover an absence on a key event date is the same as on any other day. The key is to use sufficient PPTO to cover the missed time. The system is designed to encourage employees to plan their absences responsibly and use their accrued benefits effectively.
To further clarify, consider the following:
- Full Shift Absence with No PPTO: Results in the standard point plus an additional point on a key event date.
- Full Shift Absence with PPTO Covering Half the Shift: Results in half a point, same as a regular day.
- Full Shift Absence with PPTO Covering the Entire Shift: No points are received.
Therefore, key event dates don't necessarily double the points for everything. They only add an additional point for completely missing the shift without using PPTO to cover at least half of it. This emphasis on attendance aims to ensure adequate staffing during peak times and minimize operational disruptions. The goal is to maintain a reliable workforce, especially during busy periods.
The origins of the confusion may stem from a few different sources. Firstly, word-of-mouth and hearsay in the workplace can distort the actual policies. Secondly, the perception that a key event date carries extra weight might lead to the idea of "double points". Thirdly, the fact that some store managers have the authority to designate key event dates can give the impression that they can arbitrarily change attendance rules. However, the core system remains the same: The only thing that happens on key event dates is that if an associate misses the entire shift and doesn't use enough PPTO for at least half of it, then they will get one additional point. Using PPTO correctly covers the absence as it would on any other day.
To illustrate the practical side, one can consider the situation of an employee who calls in sick on a key event date. If the employee uses enough PPTO to cover the entire shift, they won't receive any points. If they use PPTO to cover half the shift, they will receive half a point. If they use no PPTO, they will receive the standard point plus one additional point for the key event date. It's a system that rewards responsible use of benefits and attendance. The system gives employees control over their attendance record by empowering them with the ability to use PPTO as needed.
Regarding the role of store managers, it's worth noting their involvement in identifying key event dates. Store managers can usually submit up to three dates per quarter. The selection of these dates often depends on projected sales, major promotional events, or other significant occasions that are specific to the store's business calendar. This localized approach recognizes that different stores have different needs and priorities. The company-wide key event dates are typically reserved for major holidays or significant sales periods that affect all Walmart locations.
Understanding these dynamics, including the actual rules and the influences of store management, is key to navigating Walmart's attendance policies successfully. The emphasis is not on "double points," but on the importance of showing up and using PPTO correctly. This clarity is essential for employees to make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary point accumulation, and maintain a positive standing with the company.
The bottom line: "Double point days" aren't a thing, but key event dates are. When it comes to managing attendance, the key to success is to be informed of all the rules, plan your absences properly, and use PPTO when needed.
For the Q1 calendar, some key event dates include 2/10, 3/29, 3/30 and 3/31. For other specific dates, the GTA Portal on OneWalmart will give you a lookup for specific dates. Also, the specific date of an event day can be found on the main page of the portal.
If you have a no call no show (NCNS), you can receive a total of 3 points on a regular day if you miss the shift entirely. However, if it's a key event date, you will receive 4 points. PPTO can remove the one point for the absence, but the 2 points for no call will remain.
For those seeking more information, it's useful to consult official resources and ask questions directly from the management to clear any doubts about the Walmart's policy.
If you are late or miss some portion of the shift, you still use PPTO in increments of 15 minutes to cover the missed time. The system is flexible, allowing associates to use PPTO for any partial or full absence.
Key event dates are a crucial part of Walmarts attendance policy. They are not to be confused with double point days. The reality is the key is to show up on time and manage your time off in advance with PPTO.
When the company says "double point days," the intent is for the absence of 100% of the shift that is not covered with at least half the shift. If the entire shift is missed and no time is covered, then there is one additional point given. If the entire shift is missed and at least half of it is covered with PPTO, then no extra point is given. The key is to use enough PPTO to cover the full time missed to avoid any points.
