We all know what it feels like to have one of those days – running late to a meeting, not quite making that deadline or showing up to an event halfway through the keynote address. It doesn’t feel good to be late but more than that, what does it tell others about you?

One Forbes article uses such words as ‘inconsiderate’, ‘flaky’, ‘disorganized’ and ‘disrespectful’ to describe those that are late. The article also argues that five minutes is on time, on time is late, and late is flat out unacceptable. With so much to balance in our business, family and personal lives, we know the importance of being on time but still find it challenging to do so.

The CFBC has some pretty strict rules when it comes to lateness. If you stroll in late (even one minute) for your 3:00pm Forum meeting, guess what? You’re picking up the drink tab. This rule may sound harsh, but its purpose is to build and communicate the importance of accountability, respect and support. This is what makes Forum so powerful. We all have busy days, bad days and traffic jams (which is sure to happen in Chicago!) but at the end of the day – we expect that you’ll be there when you say you will, no exceptions (barring true emergencies, of course). In Forum, peers rely on you and your insights. If you’re late, you send the message that they’re not a priority. The gesture of paying for drinks shows that you are holding yourself accountable for your actions and respect your peers’ time.

At CFBC, your presence—physical and emotional—matters.

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