Two Important Processes Companies Should Do To Prevent Problems Down the Road

There are many things a Company can do to provide a great workplace for employees.  Having policies and documentation are two processes that will save time, money and headaches.

• Policies – Creating policies, along with an Employee Handbook, provides structure, consistency and ensures that employees understand the culture and expectations of the Company.  An Employee Handbook is the most effective way to keep Human Resource policies in one document and easy to find.  Employee Handbooks define the Company’s culture, expectations, policies, as well as many other employment practices in the Company. Even if only one employee works for the Company, it is an essential document to provide employees and request their acknowledgement that they read the Employee Handbook.
• Document, Document and Document – Conversations with an employee regarding their employment and performance should always be documented so a clear record of the conversation is established. The documentation may be for performance improvement, change in job duties, or other employment actions. Documentation also prevents deviations from policies, creates a record of the conversation, next steps, employee’s response and an action plan. By documenting employment conversations, it helps management explain the employment action, notifies the employee of expectations and helps to ensure fair treatment for all employees. One note on documentation—always be objective and do not include personal opinions. Focus on the employment action.