Employee Handbook

What is an employee handbook? 

An employee handbook is a type of document that serves as a manual of information for employers and employees alike. An employee handbook provides guidance and essential information regarding an organization’s mission, vision, values, history, policies, guidelines, procedures, and other things concerning an organization. All these pieces of information are formalized in a written format as an accessible guide to all members of an organization. 

What can you find in an employee handbook? 

An employee handbook should be custom to an organization. Although the specific contents can vary from company to company, the following topics are commonly found in an employee handbook: 

• Company history, values, mission, and culture
• Legal policies
• Benefits information
• Dress code
• Company grievance policy
• Company procedures
• Employee rights
• HR information

Why is having an employee handbook important for employers? 

Creating an employee handbook may be a tedious and time-consuming endeavor. However, any business will benefit from having one in place. For starters, an employee handbook is an avenue for employers to introduce the organization’s culture, mission, and values. 

An employee handbook provides a central source of information for all employees regarding policies and procedures in the workplace. It is a way of spelling out what the rules and expectations are of each team member and what can happen if these are violated. Having an employee handbook in place can also prevent misunderstandings and complaints because the policies are consistently communicated. Lastly, an employee handbook can help businesses in case of employee claims, disputes, or lawsuits. 

According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), it is a good move for employers to not only give each employee a copy of the employee handbook but to have them sign an acknowledgment form that they have received, read, and understood it. A representative of the HR team should also be available to explain its contents and answer 

Why is having an employee handbook important for employees? 

An employee handbook is a guide for employees. By having it available, employees are not left to wonder about the company rules and policies. They can avoid confusion of rules because guidelines are stipulated in the handbook. Additionally, employees will know more about the organization, its values, and history. 

An employee handbook is typically given to new employees as part of their onboarding process. However, it is beneficial for all employees to regularly read the handbook to review policies and other information.