There are many decisions that business owners must make when they set up their new entities. From the structures they utilize to the products or services they will offer for sale, New York business owners have a lot to work through to get their fledgling entities off the ground. In some cases, they may lose details along the way in lieu of handling seemingly bigger problems.
One detail that no business should overlook is the creation of an employee handbook. Employee handbooks serve as communications tools between employers and employees. Their contents can and should be changed as practices and laws change over time, and business owners whose handbooks are in need of updates can reach out to their trusted employment law attorneys for advice.
What can be included in an employee handbook?
Employee handbooks can be comprehensive documents that outline business goals, company policies, and even applicable employment laws. Many employee handbooks offer employees detailed information on their compensation and benefits packages, as well as overviews of the organizations that they work for. They can include instructions on how employees should address problems at work, such as disputes with fellow workers or claims of harassment or discrimination. Employee handbooks can discuss prohibited conduct, such as the use of alcohol or drugs while on the job, and the penalties that employees can face when found in violation of those rules.
Why should employee handbooks be changed?
As stated, time can bring changes to businesses, their goals, and their needs from their employees. An entity may find itself subject to new or different laws and may need to reflect those alterations in their employee handbooks. They may change the structures or organization of their businesses and those changes may require updates to the documents they provide to their employees. They may also need to change handbooks of their entities are bought out or merged with other corporations.
Up-to-date information is important to protect the relationship between employers and employees. Employee handbooks can be useful tools for employers when conflicts arise between them and those who work for them. This informational post should not be read as legal advice, and businesses that are ready to update their employee handbooks can contact their trusted employment law attorneys for help.