Often, legislation will change which will make certain procedures obsolete, while others might prove ineffective in the particular workplace. When creating your family leave policies, it’s important to avoid gender bias and offer leave equally to all sexes. 2016 data shows that more companies are embracing LGBTQ equality than ever before and inclusive hiring statements are on the rise. Rules about facial hair A family leave policy doesn’t just consist of what you’d like to offer your staff — you also need comply with federal and state regulations. But, they’re not the only ones. Be specific in your policy and define what actions are restricted — from verbal threats to shoving — as well as the types of weapons not allowed on work premises, such as knives, guns or other firearms. Employees report they can receive four weeks of … Dress code and grooming standards 3. Make sure all employees receive original (and updated) company policies for total compliance and legal protection. Every business should have some policies and procedures to govern their daily business operations and to protect the business and their employees. For additional guidance on how to steer your company in the right direction, download our free tip sheet, 7 Top Company Policies for Today’s Changing Workplace. Our New World of Work survey found a great deal of uncertainty about the road ahead, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Confidentiality policies might cover personal or proprietary data, prototypes, software, drawings, systems, methods, internal and external communications, and test results. Company policies and procedures outline the way business is conducted within that organization, providing guidelines for both employees and managers. Consider adding policies in these 10 key areas: In today’s workplace, many employees use their own cell phones, tablets and laptops both on and off the job. Check your state and local law to ensure all leave requirements are included in your employee handbook. Finding the best car insurance company for your needs and budget can be difficult. Identify key processes and tasks in your business, and develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for each. Or talk to us about your hiring plans and discover how Workable can help you find and hire great people. Credit – Determine the terms of opening an account and building good credit with your company. We couldn't sign you up. Trends in new technology, device use, remote working and social media also require a closer look at confidentiality and other policies. Employee attendance and paid time off (including accrual or payouts of unused time. There’s no need to worry about being on top of trending policies with the Company Policies Smart App. They give employees the means to become more productive and engaged. Employers at Sparrows, an offshore oil and gas services company based in Scotland, sent an insane memo to their staff in 2013, informing them that milk, while still permitted on the premises, could no longer be used in cereal. Our HR experts consistently monitor and add new policies for your use so you’re always in the best position to address emerging issues. In response to last year’s tax reform legislation, the IRS updated the income-tax withholding tables for 2018. Remote work, technology, and engagement are hot topics in the New World of Work. How will I know if a certain policy is the best choice for my employees? [COMING SOON]. She is a licensed attorney in Florida and Illinois. If you have any drug-testing procedures in place, such as random testing, for-cause testing or post-accident testing, be sure you define them clearly. Read the minds of our team of HR writers. Today’s policies shouldn’t have different time-off allotments for male vs. female bonding of a new child. The best company policies don’t police. These guidelines shouldn’t be draconian, though. First, the basics. And some lessons will help you fully integrate policies with your company’s values and ethics, training programs and compliance efforts. It contains Company Policies and generic operating procedures to be adopted by personnel in the course of their duties. Keep in mind that, in many states, firearms are allowed in locked vehicles in the parking lot, regardless of workplace restrictions. Protect your company with a well-written policy that outlines the boundaries or security features you require, as well as procedures when employment ends. Sick leave (including what your business will do if there’s a major outbreak or pandemic like the influenza virus or most recently the COVID-19 crisis). In sensitive industries, you may need to ask employees to sign a confidentiality, non-disclosure or non-compete agreement. But it may not be appropriate for all workers. Articulate strategy to strengthen the company’s agency model In fact, under OSHA and various state laws, you are obligated to protect employees from workplace violence. Our HR experts consistently monitor and add new policies for your use so you’re always in the best position to address emerging issues. It’s best to check that this is the case in your IT environment as, if this account is enabled in your domain, disabling it will prevent people from abusing access: In Group Policy Management Editor (opened for a custom GPO), go to “Computer Configuration” “Windows Settings” “Security Settings” “Local Policies” “Security Options”. Protect your company’s reputation and legal status by creating a social media policy that empowers your employees to share messages in a positive way while avoiding potential problems. Don’t be afraid to ask your employees for feedback on how you can better support them. policies your company needs and identifying when those policies should be updated. Companies with well-designed LGBTQ-friendly policies see clear business and recruiting sense in standing up for equality. It is a reference throughout the Company. illegal to terminate employees due to their personal posts, more companies are embracing LGBTQ equality than ever before, inclusive hiring statements are on the rise. They are the framework and constraints within which everyone can strive for individual and collective success. New laws focused on family leave, marijuana use and firearms may require you to update company policies. Company policy statements should be clear, specific and state consequences for infractions. Add a few personal touches and you’re good to go. They give employees the means to become more productive and engaged. Read our in-depth report. Workplace safety 4. Most of the work happens before you ever begin to write. Your pre-writing activities include deciding on a document focus and researching background. Start hiring now with a 15-day free trial. For a practical, online tool for creating, communicating and maintaining company policies, consider the Company Policies … The company maintains an A++ rating for financial strength from AM Best. These days it’s common for some employees to work from home or remotely. Methodology . Struggling with a task or project? Even in states where concealed-carry weapons are legal, employers can prohibit employees from carrying weapons into the workplace premises or making threats against other employees. Finding the best life insurance company can be challenging, especially since the advantages one company over another are not immediately obvious. One company may have several policies. Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter! Include specific provisions for how to report behavior that violates your policies and a statement that ensures reporting such behavior is protected. THE biggest and best variable data differentiator an insurance company can include is the expiration date of the recipient’s policy. After writing, your documents should be reviewed, validated, and approved. They can set clear guidelines on what is and isn’t appropriate. These policies, procedures, and checklists successfully recognize the limits of providing employees proper guidance for appropriate behavior at work and draw a line between that and employee lives outside of the workplace. May. Company Policies & Standard Operational Procedures About this document This document is the Saltaire Security Ltd record of Company Policies and Standard Operational Procedures. When a company policy involves employees, it is likely to be overseen by either management or human resources. What’s in, what’s out, and what’s around the corner—they’ve got the HR world covered. Make sure to add our address smartapps@hrdirectapps.com to your contacts, so that our email won't end up in your spam folder. Spell out how requests for accommodations should be made, including what information you require (such as any medical records) and to whom requests should be submitted. Most employee handbooks include policies like anti-discrimination, confidentiality, code of conduct and attendance. To help businesses navigate this new landscape, we’ve added new COVID-19 related policies to our Company Policies Smart App covering: Shanna supports legal research and content for the product development of next generation HR/compliance solutions at ComplyRight. Every company has its unique policy, and they have to follow some standard guidelines and set of rules, and for some, they are free to make them run in their own way. But that’s not all – there’s much, much more. Set exp… Clearly define the types of actions that are considered discrimination or harassment (including sexual harassment) and what your policies for infractions are. Learn more about the features available and how they make each recruiting task easier. Several federal laws require employers to protect workers from workplace harassment and discrimination. Let’s take a closer look at the company policies every conscientious business should cover. A company policy is a guideline to help employer's dealing with employee accountability, health, safety, and interactions with customers. Developing policies is an essential step for any new company, but it’s also important to understand that policies need to be monitored and updated. Get clear explanations of the most common HR terms. Don’t let jargon stand between you and your to-do list. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requires companies with 15 or more employees to provide certain accommodations for workers with disabilities to allow them to perform their jobs. With new laws in many states that legalize marijuana for medicinal or recreational use, your drug use policies may need updating. While allowing employees to bring their own devices can reduce costs, it also creates potential security and legal compliance concerns. Knowing the right thing to do when it comes to managing a business isn’t always an easy task, but follow these 10 steps for business best practices and you’ll be on the right track: 1. An online company policies or employee handbook tool is a smart way to keep your rules and guidelines accessible. Employees at Liberty Mutual say the company has "one of the best vacation time off" policies. Remote work, digital transformation, and engagement are hot topics according to our new survey on the New World of Work. Best Practices Successful Companies & Their Marketing Organizations are Putting into Practice. Industry insights, new tech and tools, step outside the day-to-day demands of HR and keep pace with a changing world. Does your parental leave policy avoid gender discrimination? Here’s what to keep in mind when creating your social media policy: COVID-19 has shifted the way we work – and some of it, permanently. Europe & Rest of World: +44 203 826 8149. Privacy – Protect employees, the company and your customers by establishing a policy that encourages transparency and trust with your customers. Americas: +1 857 990 9675 Please report this error to support@hrdirectapps.zendesk.com, Learn the Essentials of Human Resources Recordkeeping Through the. Severe weather or natural disasters, ranging from hurricanes, blizzards, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods and fires, can happen nearly everywhere. Be sure you have a policy to let employees know what to expect in case of an emergency. "The milk purchased by the company … Since graduating from St. Thomas University, School of Law, Shanna has practiced law for 8 years. Banish the blank page for good with our 1000+ HR templates. These policies are a lot like terms and conditions and are used for the benefit of the company as a whole. WHS policies highlight safety procedures and the responsibilities of all employees to keep the workplace safe. Establish when social media for personal use is allowed, what information is considered confidential, the brand guidelines for discussing company products or services, and rules of etiquette. Plus, you have the ability to create, edit, distribute and keep track of the receipt of all policies for your business. The best company policies don’t police. A drug-free workplace policy should strictly prohibit the sale, possession and use of illegal drugs or alcohol when an employee is on the job. Policies are also guidelines for legal issues, regulatory requirements, and any situation that could lead to serious consequences. Though some companies remain hesitant about embracing WFH, most companies proclaimed as “best places to work” provide flexible schedules and telecommuting options. and they may pertain to issues involving clients or employees. 1. Nowadays, this means addressing gender equality issues, remote working arrangements, technology use, and drug and gun law matters. Besides, for anyone who has watched a few kids playing together it’s pretty obvious why rules are important. Two types of company policies you should have relate to recruitment and separation. Though those form the basis of a functioning company, they may not be enough to create a happy workplace. It’s a roadmap of how they should act, and it speaks to your company culture.Some of the basic information you’ll want to include in your code of conduct includes: 1. 08, While too much social media activity might hinder employee productivity, banning or monitoring personal social media use during working hours could create unnecessary resentment. More than 30 states allow medical marijuana use and 11 states, plus Washington D.C., permit recreational use. 2020. In addition, outlining your company policies in writing helps: There’s no need to worry about being on top of trending policies with the Company Policies Smart App. Be sure you have a policy that outlines who is eligible for remote working arrangements and what the limitations and expectations are. Take a look to see the recommended sample policies that don't sap employee spirits and steal their lives and private time. Your company's recruitment policy should demonstrate fairness and diversity in the hiring process and must follow the guidelines of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in regard to avoiding discrimination based on factors like age, gender or race. When we talk to clients as part of an IT audit we often find that policies are a concern, either the policies are out of date or just not in place at all. Sign up for jargon-free hiring resources. Connect with our team of Workable experts and other industry professionals. Policies are to a company what rules are to the players of a game. In addition to these basic policies, you’ll want to make sure your company policies address some important workplace trends. Get clear, concise, up-to-date advice with our practical, step-by-step guides. Rules of conduct (such as taking personal calls or using cell phones), establish boundaries and prevent misunderstandings, reduce HR time spent managing questions about what is allowed, create consistency in how requests and benefits are handled, provide legal protections if your practices are ever challenged in court, Social Distancing and Protective Personal Equipment Ensure your policy avoids discrimination and enables you to end the ability to work remotely if necessary. Determining the best policies for your company can seem challenging at first. A company confidentiality policy helps protect customer data, trade secrets, procedures and information about new products or services. Workplace injuries can affect your business in a number of ways including decreased productivity, sick pay obligations and the cost of finding a replacement. More often than not, these policies are directed at the company employees. Ready-to-go resources to support you through every stage of the HR lifecycle, from recruiting to retention. In honor of Small Business Week, we've compiled a list of five terrible company policies that other businesses should try to avoid at all cost. Having well-written and up-to-date employee policies is more than a good business practice. Others provide writing tips that result in policies that are easier for your employees to understand and follow. The best approach to creating and implementing successful policies is through careful consideration. Now, more than ever, it’s critical to have updated company policies that reflect what is happening in the workplace due to the COVID-19 emergency — and to communicate those policies electronically to reach the most employees. Best Workplaces 7 Vacation Policies That Will Make Your Business a Better Place to Work From sabbaticals to paid honeymoons, here's a roundup of time-off policies to consider for your business. Make sure your employees know that discrimination is illegal when you’re hiring, providing job assignments or offering promotions. It also helps put you on firm legal footing. Ask questions, find answers, get tips, and dig deeper into our product. Attendance requirementsSpell it all out for your employees. The cost of life insurance varies widely by company and product type; so when shopping for a policy you need to make sure to compare policies that are within your budget. The rules and norms governing the workplace are changing and employee manuals need to reflect the shifts that are happening. For every hiring challenge, Workable has a solution. Check out our policies template library to begin building a complete employee handbook of your best company policies. That way, agents know WHEN to hit homes with their mailers and people know by when they need to call for a quote. Modern collaboration tools make working from home an attractive, cost-effective option for employees and employers alike. Make sure your company policy defines disabilities and states your intent to comply with all applicable laws under the ADA. Americas: +1 857 990 9675 Policies can make it clear to employees what kind of behavior is expected in your workplace. For example, outline what is permitted (such as sharing new product photos or images from a company event) as well as what is not (such as pre-launch details, internal strategies or controversial political comments). And the U.S. corporate world took note. For Customers Doing Business with Your Company. By having policies and processes in place, you create standards and values for your business. Though those form the basis of a functioning company, they may not be enough to create a happy workplace. When clients are involved, policies are often handled by … Here’s what to keep in mind when creating anti-discrimination policies that support LGBTQ employees: All these policies help you stand out as an employer. Here’s what to keep in mind when creating your work from home policy: LGBTQ rights were in the limelight this year. Now to create a policy, you could make use of these professional templates. Code of ethics 2. Organize Company Policies Easily. These policies address a company's rules and procedures regarding holidays, vacation, sick, and other types of time off benefits, or leave required by law (such as voting leave, family leave, and domestic violence leave) or company policy. Policies and procedures are typically bound into employee handbooks for efficient reference. At a minimum, your written company policies should cover certain fundamentals, such as: Specify the consequences for policy infractions and how to request time off or apply for benefits. Although federal and state laws don’t require you to create an employee handbook or put all your policies in writing, doing so makes sound legal sense. The overall purpose behind creating a business policy is to make a company run smoothly, efficiently and in a well-organized approach to get maximum business benefits and customer satisfaction. Europe & Rest of World: +44 203 826 8149 Her background also includes B2B sales and marketing as well as firsthand experience as a small business owner.FUN FACT: Shanna’s all-time favorite sports team is the St. Louis Cardinals. They can also improve the way your customers and staff deal with your business. Detail how you will communicate instructions and what the chain of command would be if your main office is closed. However, if you don’t have some company policies, you may soon find yourself in a situation in which you wish you did. Here are three of the best company policies that ambitious companies are adopting: 2016 was the tipping point for official social media policies: 51% of employees now report that their employers offer guidelines for using social media at work. Creating good policies takes time and effort, but you can increase your chances for success by remembering a few basics. Remote work, technology, and engagement are hot topics in the New World of Work. Most employee handbooks include policies like anti-discrimination, confidentiality, code of conduct and attendance. Finally, you will disseminate your documents and train users in the new policies and pro… Your business’s code of conduct is the first place employees should look when they have questions about ethics and compliance. And policies can help you avoid, or at least defend against, lawsuits. Procedures for each business can … A company policy helps foster employee wellness, fair treatment, and to ensure that a company is following laws and regulations. Today, this goes beyond the traditional language that prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin or gender, and it may include sexual orientation, gender identity or age as well. It should specify the types of forbidden substances and conduct as well as the consequences for violating the policy. To these basic policies, you may need to call for a quote require to... Good policies takes time and effort, but you can better support them and employers alike Determine the of! Besides, for anyone who has watched a few basics the company’s model., step-by-step guides your employee handbook of your best company policies for your business or promotions. Rules and guidelines accessible, for anyone who has watched best company policies few basics chances for by. 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