Interview with Valentina Vecchié, Personnel Development Specialist at Livit
Since 2024, Livit AG has been working with Corporate Health Services (CHS) to train managers in handling absences. The aim of this partnership is to sustainably embed absence management into everyday management practices.
The training is designed to create a shared understanding of best practices and provide managers with practical tools to help them handle absence-related situations with greater confidence.
At a glance
55
managers trained
6
training days in French-speaking and German-speaking Switzerland
3,6 / 4
Overall respondent satisfaction
Training managers: a means of prevention
Livit AG regularly welcomes new managers. In this context, it is essential to introduce them to best practices from the very beginning and provide them with the tools they need to manage absences confidently.
Livit faces three main challenges:
- difficult conversations with employees;
- long-term absences;
- repeated short-term absences.
« Not all managers felt comfortable in these situations, and some did not always know how to handle them. »
Valentina Vecchié
The key to success: a practical approach
Livit AG was particularly impressed by the practical approach of the training.
Participants particularly appreciated:
- the practical recommendations;
- the immediate applicability of the tools;
- the balance between theory and practice;
- role-playing exercises based on real-life situations.
« Among other things, the trainers conducted role-playing exercises that helped participants consolidate what they had learned. »
Valentina Vecchié
What managers gain from the training
The training enables managers to:
- prepare for conversations related to an absence;
- identify situations at risk;
- approach sensitive conversations with greater confidence;
- apply shared tools and methods.
What has changed since the training
✅ Greater awareness of absence management
According to Livit, one of the main changes following the training is increased awareness of warning signs and situations requiring targeted support. Managers now involve HR earlier in the process.
✅ Conversations take place earlier
Sensitive situations are less likely to be postponed, and discussions with employees take place sooner.
✅ Greater use of tools
Managers make more targeted use of the methods and tools introduced during the training to structure their approach and conversations.
Valentina Vecchié’s conclusion
« The training gives managers the confidence and practical tools they need to manage absences professionally. »
Valentina Vecchié
More than a one-off training course
Livit AG’s experience shows that regular training and awareness-raising initiatives give managers the confidence they need to address absence-related situations early and professionally. At the same time, they promote a shared understanding and consistent practices across the organisation.
FAQ
Why should managers be trained in absence management?
Managers are often the first point of contact for employees. They therefore play a key role in identifying situations that require support at an early stage.
What topics are covered in the training?
The training focuses in particular on conducting conversations, managing repeated absences, management best practices, and using practical tools to support employees.
