I have 2 employees that tell me when they are leaving early or re-arranging their schedules as opposed to asking me if they can. How do I tell them to ask instead of telling me without sounding like I am their Mother?

Do they know that you are their supervisor; or do you have that position?

If you don't have that position you should talk to the "head boss" about your concerns with these employees. If you are not directly in charge of these employees; they aren't your concern.

If you are their supervisor, it sounds like maybe you need to set some boundaries and speak to them individually. It doesn't sound to me like they know that you have that authority.

Another good thing to do would be to take some supervisory skill classes from the State in which you work. These are very helpful; you will learn a lot of "you can do this"; but "you cannot do that". It is always best to be in the know for sure before you begin to throw your weight around.

If you are the owner of the company, (I know the State of Oregon where I live; is a no reason necessary State). You might want to make sure about your State laws and if it is like Oregon, you don't have to have a reason to fire anyone.

Good Luck.