This article answers common questions asked by people about employee handbooks & HR policies.
What is an employee handbook?
An employee handbook is a document that outlines the policies, procedures, and expectations of an organization for its employees.
What should be included in an employee handbook?
An employee handbook should include information on company culture, benefits, conduct, and performance expectations, as well as any legal requirements, such as anti-discrimination and harassment policies.
Can an employee handbook be changed?
An employee handbook can be changed, but it is important to communicate any updates to employees and have them acknowledge receipt of the updated version.
Do I have to sign an employee handbook?
It is common for employees to be required to sign an employee handbook to acknowledge that they have received and understand the policies outlined in the handbook.
Can an employee handbook be used as a contract?
An employee handbook is not a legally binding contract, but it can serve as evidence of the terms of employment if there is a dispute.
Can an employee handbook override existing employment laws?
An employee handbook cannot override existing employment laws, such as those related to minimum wage, overtime, and discrimination.
How do I address employee handbook violations?
If an employee violates the policies outlined in the employee handbook, the organization should follow its disciplinary process as outlined in the handbook.
Can an employee handbook be used as evidence in a legal dispute?
An employee handbook can be used as evidence in a legal dispute, but it is not the only factor that will be considered.
How often should an employee handbook be updated?
An employee handbook should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that it accurately reflects the policies and procedures of the organization.
What is the purpose of HR policies?
HR policies are guidelines and rules that outline how an organization will handle various HR-related matters, such as hiring, performance management, and termination.
What should be included in HR policies?
HR policies should include information on the processes and procedures for handling HR-related matters, as well as any legal requirements.
Can HR policies be changed?
HR policies can be changed, but it is important to communicate any updates to employees and have them acknowledge receipt of the updated version.
Do employees have to follow HR policies?
Employees are expected to follow HR policies as outlined in the handbook or other HR materials.
Can HR policies be used as a contract?
HR policies are not legally binding contracts, but they can serve as evidence of the terms of employment if there is a dispute.
Can HR policies override existing employment laws?
HR policies cannot override existing employment laws.
How do I address HR policy violations?
If an employee violates HR policies, the organization should follow its disciplinary process as outlined in the policies.
Can HR policies be used as evidence in a legal dispute?
HR policies can be used as evidence in a legal dispute, but they are not the only factor that will be considered.
How often should HR policies be updated?
HR policies should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that they accurately reflect the policies and procedures of the organization.
Is an employee handbook the same as HR policies?
An employee handbook and HR policies are related, but they are not the same thing. An employee handbook is a general overview of the policies and expectations of the organization for its employees, while HR policies are more specific guidelines and rules related to HR matters.
Who is responsible for creating and maintaining employee handbooks and HR policies?
The responsibility for creating and maintaining employee handbooks and HR policies typically falls to the HR department or a designated individual or team within the organization.