Everyday Workplace Policies

1. Right from the Start

It pays to invest time in recruiting the best people you can find and setting them up properly in their jobs.

1.1 Provide every employee (full or part-time) with an employment contract.

• This should be a clear agreement, covering the essential terms and conditions of employment (see Employment contracts).
• Include a detailed job description, but one that does not limit the person's role.

1.2 Develop a systematic induction process to help new employees find their feet quickly.

• Use the opportunity to tell them about the culture and customs of the company, as well as about their jobs.

1.3 Schedule the employee's first performance appraisal, towards the end of a short probationary period. (See Performance appraisals.)

• Explain your grievance procedure, which must conform to statutory minimum standards (see Discipline and grievance issues).
• Tell new employees who they can approach if they have a grievance.

1.4 Provide a company handbook for new employees. This can be as short or as long as you like.

• The handbook sets out your policies and day-to-day expectations on issues that could not be covered in the contract. Include details of your discipline and grievance procedures if they are not covered in the contract.
• Run through the handbook as part of the induction process (see 1.2).