An employee handbook is a powerful tool to communicate an organization’s vision and value. It lays the groundwork for a company’s culture and influences how the organization functions on a day-to-day basis. Plus, it can form the first line of defense in an employment lawsuit or investigation.

Here’s how:

1. Introduces employees to company culture, mission, and values. Clear values and strong culture help drive consistent customer service, work habits, company objectives, and more, and help keep companies headed in the right direction.
2. Communicates your expectations for employees. A well-written handbook gives employees a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, and creates a more harmonious workplace by providing guidance on expected behavior and conduct.
3. Tells employees what they can expect from management. An employee handbook clarifies company objectives and leadership styles – as well as management best practices – to foster healthy manager – employee relationships.
4. Helps ensure key company policies are clear and consistent. A handbook will familiarize employees with your organization’s policies relating to employment, conduct, compensation, health and safety, and more.
5. Showcases the benefits your organization offers. From paid time off to retirement plans, to employee perks or events, an employee handbook lets employees know about a company’s suite of benefits, which can help increase employee retention.
6. Ensures compliance with federal and state law. A handbook is a critical tool for ensuring and demonstrating that your organization’s policies and procedure comply with your legal obligations.
7. Helps defend against employment claims. An employee handbook can serve as a valuable protection in the event an employee were to challenge an employer with a lawsuit.
8. Lets employees know where to turn for help. A handbook describes how employees can get help to resolve conflicts, report workplace violations, get workplace -related assistance, and answer other on-the-job questions they may have.

Emplova is a unique Professional Employer Organization (PEO) that helps small to medium sized businesses grow and prosper by providing benefits, payroll, technology, compliance, and HR administration. To learn how we can create a winning HR strategy for your business contact us today.