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Why You Need an Employee Handbook



Why You Need an Employee Handbook

Picture yourself sitting across the table from your attorney, because you have a significantly risky employee issue. She asks you in a very serious tone, “What does your employee handbook say about harassment?” Your brain begins quickly checking its files, hmmm . . . just not finding that one! “Well (you stammer), we have been meaning to get one of those!” She gives you the “big eye roll” and a heavy sigh. Don’t let this be you! 

Regardless the size of your company, all employers have guidelines. They have rules. They have laws. Communicating these to your employees by means of an employee handbook is one of the greatest gifts you can give them (your attorney will consider it her gift too)!

A well-written handbook gives your employees:

  • Instruction on the purpose of your business;
  • Standards on what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior;
  • Knowledge of important employment laws designed for their protection (and yours);
  • Advantages of their employment with your Company;
  • Instruction of how and when they will be paid and how much time off they are allotted; and
  • Your commitment to treating them fairly, non-discriminatory, and respectfully.
Employers with such a document for their employees will illustrate how much they are appreciated and valued. A word of caution though, if you have a handbook, you need to keep it updated and follow your own rules.
Act now to reduce your potential risk by obtaining or updating your employee handbook. And, next time your attorney asks you, “What does your employee handbook say about . . . . ?” You will be able to answer with confidence!
Contact Meridian Business Services today for more information and to learn how we can help! 

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