What should be confirmed before hiring a replacement for an employee on LOA?

Before hiring a replacement for an employee on leave of absence (LOA), it is essential to confirm the duration of the LOA. Understanding how long the employee will be unavailable provides critical insight into whether a temporary hire is necessary and for how long that position would need to be filled. This confirmation enables the organization to plan effectively for staffing needs without prematurely making decisions that could complicate returning the original employee after their leave period.

While considering the availability of funds, the employee's performance history, and company policy on hiring are also important factors when planning workforce management, they do not specifically address the immediate need related to the employee's LOA. The duration of the leave directly impacts the timing and justification for bringing in a temporary replacement, ensuring that the company maintains operational flow while respecting the employee's rights and situation.