By Ricotta & Marks, P.C. on August 20th, 2021 in
What is the Importance of Employee Handbooks? When employees join a company, it is important to ensure they are all on the same page. Maybe the company has set procedures for communication. Perhaps the company has certain rules in place regarding breaks and time off.
Instead of making the employees guess as to what rules they need to follow, it is a good idea to document everything that workers need to know in an employee handbook. An employee handbook should be given to all new workers upon hire so they know what is expected of them. If they are unsure about a certain policy, they should be able to find it in the handbook or at least know whom to contact for clarification. A good employee handbook also helps workers understand their rights while protecting the employer from litigation.
Companies big and small can benefit from an employee handbook. It is an important document that every employer should give to employees. It documents expectations on both ends and clears up and misunderstandings. A well-written employee handbook can serve as a manual for employees, managers and HR personnel. Even if you have just one or two employees, such a handbook can be beneficial.
Why is an Employee Handbook Important?
An employee handbook offers many benefits. It sets work schedules, standards of conduct, compensation, workplace safety rules, benefits, and leave policies. It also includes anti-discrimination policies and outlines what to do if an employee needs to file a complaint.
An employee handbook also brings about consistency to a company. It discusses expectations for ethics and behavior, reducing complaints. A handbook saves time, reducing the amount of time HR personnel have to repeat the same procedures.
An employee handbook gives clarity about job responsibilities, allowing employees to ramp up productivity more quickly. It also helps companies comply with state and federal laws, providing defense for employers in the event of a lawsuit.
Tips for Creating an Employee Handbook
If your company does not have an employee handbook in place yet, here are some tips for creating one:
- Make sure all policies are covered. These include policies dictated by law, as well as policies that are specific to the company. This would include things such as time off, dress code, and communication policies.
- Use simple language. Make sure the handbook is easy to understand. Avoid using legal jargon that can make it difficult for your employees to understand. You do want to prevent misinterpretation, though, so be thorough.
- Update it as needed. As law or employer policies change, make sure the employee handbook is updated so employees are kept up to date.
Contact a New York Employment Law Attorney
Employee handbooks may not seem like an essential item for many businesses, but even the smallest business can benefit from one. By having one available to all employees, you can prevent misunderstandings and lawsuits.
If you are an employer, you need to protect your bottom line. The employment law attorneys at Ricotta & Marks, P.C. can help you create the documentation you need so your business can succeed. Schedule a free consultation today by calling our office at (347) 464-8694.