An employee handbook is a valuable tool that gives employees a variety of information to help them understand employment expectations, handle issues, reference policies, and learn what's acceptable in the workplace.
It provides guidance and sets precedence - dealing with your people issues in a consistent manner builds a culture of trust and loyalty.
This is what should be included in a handbook:
Welcome & Introduction
Compliance and Legal Requirements
Pay Process & Timekeeping
Work Hours
Dress Code
Holidays Observed
Vacation Entitlement
Leaves of Absence
Attendance & Punctuality
Group Insurance & Benefits
Health & Safety
Social Media/Cell Phone Use
Employee Conduct
Performance Management
End of Employment
These policies may not all apply to your business but they are a great starting point.
When was the last time you revised your employee handbook?
How often do you update it?
Do you have one?
Maybe it’s time.