Employee Handbook
Key Takeaway
If a company has employees,
it should have an employee handbook—even if it’s a simple version. As the business grows, the handbook should be updated regularly to reflect legal, operational, and cultural changes.
What is an Employee Handbook?
An employee handbook is a formal document that outlines a company's policies, procedures, and expectations for employees. It serves as a guide for workplace behavior, company culture, benefits, and legal compliance. Typically, it includes sections on:
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Company mission, values, and culture
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Employment policies (e.g., at-will employment, equal opportunity)
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Workplace conduct (e.g., harassment policies, code of ethics)
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Compensation and benefits (e.g., pay structure, health benefits)
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Work hours, leave policies, and remote work guidelines
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Disciplinary procedures and conflict resolution
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Safety and security policies
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Legal rights and obligations of both employer and employee
The handbook is both an operational tool and a legal safeguard that helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures consistent policy enforcement.