The handbook serves as a valuable tool for acquainting new employees with a company’s values and culture, elucidating their expectations in their new roles. Moreover, it serves as a safeguard against potential legal issues, such as discrimination, wrongful termination, or other human resources concerns.
What are the benefits of an employee handbook?
This comprehensive document consolidates all necessary information, both legal and practical, in one accessible location, providing employees with essential insights. While not a mandatory requirement, having an employee handbook offers various benefits, including clarifying expectations, documenting disciplinary procedures, protecting against employee grievances, and enabling employees to find answers independently.
Who creates the employee handbook?
The responsibility for creating and updating the employee handbook typically falls on the Human Resources department in larger firms, whereas smaller organizations usually delegate this task to the management team. The handbook should commence with an introduction to the company, outlining its objectives and principles, followed by detailed employment policies covering topics like sickness absence, reward schemes, discrimination, disciplinaries, parental and maternity leave, working from home arrangements, notice periods, grievance procedures, employee performance, appraisals, and health and safety policies.
What should an employee handbook contain?
Given the unique processes and policies of each organisation, the contents of an employee handbook should be tailored to meet specific business needs. Effective handbooks support employee inductions and equip staff with the necessary information for compliant and efficient job performance.
How often should you review an employee handbook?
To ensure ongoing compliance and a positive employer reputation, regular reviews and updates of the employee handbook are essential. Staying abreast of legislative changes in business and employment law and promptly incorporating these adjustments into the handbook help maintain its relevance and effectiveness.