Forget to include any policies you are legally obligated to provide, such as FMLA. Overlook differences in federal, state and local law. Neglect to include information on leaving the company and how resignations, terminations and retirements will be handled.
The topics included in the employee handbook should cover the employer's mission statement, equal employment opportunity statement, contractual disclaimer and at-will employment statement (where allowed), purpose of the employee handbook, and background information on the company.
What Goes Into an Employee Handbook? Company Values and Mission Statement. General Employment Information. Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Laws. Standards of Conduct. Employee Benefits. Confidentiality / Non-Disclosure Agreement / Conflict of Interest. Disciplinary Policies. Disclaimer.
Standard Documents Equal Employment Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination Policy (CA) Disability Accommodations Policy (CA) Anti-Harassment Policy (CA) Anti-Retaliation Policy (CA) Harassment, Discrimination, and Retaliation Prevention Policy (CA) Religious Accommodations Policy (CA)
Certain policies are mandatory and must be included in your employee handbook. For example, California employers must have a written harassment, discrimination and retaliation prevention policy. Including these policies clarifies for employees their rights and obligations, and protects you from potential liability.
While the law in California does not require businesses to create or distribute employee handbooks, the law does require every business to memorialize certain workplace policies in writing.
5 little-known policies that need to be in your employee handbook Dress code policy. Employee dating policy. Flexible work arrangement policy. Gifts and favors policy. Employee complaint-resolution policy.
Below are some of the essential topics to include in your handbook. Welcome Message. How do you communicate your values and mission to employees? ... Your At-Will Relationship. Equal Employment Opportunity. Conduct. Compensation & Performance. Benefits & Leaves. Health & Safety. Workplace Guidelines.
Include information on employee conduct and work rules. Notify employees how their work performance will be evaluated and reviewed. Aim to protect your company and the workplace by including policies on workplace safety and security as well as workplace violence.