The Employee Handbook is one of most important documents used in any business, yet it can also be the first thing that gets an employer in trouble. To avoid this from happening use the following tips:
1. Giving too much detail: Stick to policies with general information. The more details you provide gives the false impression that every infraction and fact are covered, when they are not.
2. Keep separate manuals: It is a good idea to have an employee handbook and a separate management handbook.
3. Inconsistency: The handbook states one thing, then another company document states it differently. Make sure all documents agree.
4. State Laws: This is especially important for multi-state employers. States have different laws, so one handbook may not fit all of your employees.
5. Updates: The manuals must be updated and/or supplemented regularly to ensure compliance with new and changing laws.
6. Unrealistic: If your supervisors won’t enforce it, don’t put it in there.
While this list is not complete, these are areas easy to get tripped up on.
Other items to note:
-Clearly state the handbook is not to be considered a contract and the company reserves the right to change it at any time.
-Make clear the company does not tolerate harassment in any way.
-Provide procedures for voicing complaints.
-Write it clearly and simply.
If you need a professional review of your policy manual or need to have one written for your company, contact us at CyQuest.