We’ve all done it at one time or another...left something pending on our to-do list we don’t feel is urgent. Before we know it, one week turns into one month! If an employee handbook is that item on your to-do list, we’re here to help. An employee handbook is an important communication tool between you and your employees and is a must-have for your business. All expectations are clearly defined, along with legal obligations as an employer and your employees’ rights. According to the EEOC, a staggering 2,767 discrimination charges were filed in Kansas and Missouri combined during the fiscal year 2017. A lot of these could have in part been avoided if a proper employee handbook had been in place.
Employees are best motivated when they know exactly what you expect of them and how they can improve their position in the company.
Also Read: The Quagmire of HR Compliance Can Make or Break Smaller Companies
This section is an absolute must and should include important disclaimers such as a section acknowledging the handbook doesn’t represent an employment contract and employees recognize they are in an at-will relationship, and a section acknowledging the company’s right to revise or terminate any of the policies in the handbook at any time, for any reason.
Because some states regard an employee handbook as an employment contract, handbooks can sometimes be a detriment to employers who find themselves in court. You can minimize this with precise language and effective disclaimers. A readily available written policy offers managers and employees a better opportunity to avoid misunderstandings that can lead to contentious and possibly litigious situations.
A well-crafted employee handbook sets the foundation for strong employee relations throughout the organization. It’s a must-have in your HR toolkit. Once you have your employee handbook, be sure to review it and update it every one-to-two years.
Still, feel overwhelmed or just want to leave it to professionals? Axcet HR Solutions’ team of skilled human resources consultants is experienced in employee relations, including employee handbook creation and updates. To learn more and contact us today.
Download our FREE report on employee handbooks now.
Written by
Jeanette Coleman, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the Director of Human Resources at Axcet HR Solutions, where she has contributed her expertise for over 21 years.
As a leader in the HR industry, she holds advanced certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). Jeanette oversees HR strategy and operations, ensuring Axcet delivers exceptional HR services that help small and mid-sized businesses stay compliant and grow.
With a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Keller Graduate School and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Kansas State University, Jeanette is well-equipped to lead and support clients in navigating complex HR challenges.
Throughout her 15-year tenure as Director of Human Resources, she has been instrumental in positioning Axcet as the Midwest’s largest and premier Professional Employer Organization (PEO). Her previous roles at Axcet include Director of Employee Benefits and Senior HR Consultant, where she gained extensive experience in HR outsourcing, payroll administration, and employee risk management.
Jeanette’s leadership reflects her deep commitment to helping businesses thrive through strategic, compliance-driven HR solutions. Through her writing, she shares insights on HR strategy, compliance, and best practices to help employers confidently manage their workforce.
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