Let’s face it, running a business is hard. When you run a small business, resources can be limited, especially without an HR department.
Employee handbooks are a vital part of every company, no matter how small, and the end of the year is a great time to make any necessary revisions.
With the New Year right around the corner, now is the time to review and update those handbooks.
It’s important to update employee handbooks for a multitude of reasons, but sometimes it’s difficult to know where to start. Important information to consider includes the following:
- Update federal and state laws and regulations. These include overtime, vacation time, wage deduction, FMLA, termination, and drug testing laws just to name a few. This is also the time to showcase the benefits you offer to your employees. The U.S. Department of Labor is a great place to start to make sure you’re covering the basics.
- Review equal employment opportunity laws. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission exists to protect applicants and employees from discrimination. New regulations are often added, and need to be supplemented into the handbook. For example, more laws are being put in place to protect LGBT rights, so it’s a good idea to always stay on top of any additions to laws. Here is a list of new and proposed regulations.
- Confirm that all employees have reviewed and signed the updated copy. Starting out 2017 with everyone on the same page is a great way to ensure a unified work environment. Handbooks that are not updated are a potential liability to your company. Protect your company, your employees, and your
Reviewing and updating your employee handbook for peak performance is a sometimes daunting, yet necessary task. Are you looking for help with the process of updating your handbook? We also deliver hr solutions and payroll solutions that may fit your company needs. Let us save you time and help your business prosper. Contact us today!
