Build a Better Employee Handbook
This week we are discussing your employee handbook. First, let’s understand the purpose of having a thoughtfully written employee handbook. The purpose of a handbook is to establish the foundation for the relationship between your employees and your company. The handbook should outline mutual expectations. A well-written employee handbook will set the tone for a positive employer-employee relationship but will also provide information and set expectations that can protect your company.
Now, take a good look at your employee handbook. Are your policies and procedures up-to-date? Are there any problematic phrases and if so be sure to delete them. If you are unsure about any uncertain language contact Ed or Bill and they can talk you through it.
Next, take action, have an audit your handbook. If you notice discrepancies then be sure to incorporate any changes or modifications. Once your handbook is up-to-date you want to reissue it to your employees. As an ongoing practice, you may want to do this once a year in January.
You also want to maintain signature verification that each employee has received and reviewed their handbook. Keep this information with their employee records in a safe file. This can protect you and your company should an employee ever engage in behavior inconsistent with your company policy.
If your company hires a lot of independent contractors, remember that they don’t receive a copy of the employee handbook. This is an important consideration when dealing with the IRS and classification of a contractor. So remember they are not employees and therefore do not receive a copy of the handbook.
