Workplace policies - why do I need them?
Policies can be defined as documents that outline rules & principles that guide managers & workers in how to behave in the workplace. Most common policies cover confidentiality, internet use and bullying & harassment. Having well-developed policies and procedures will provide multiple benefits to your workplace:
Policies set up your staff for success – they will know what is expected of them with respect to standards of behaviour and performance.
Policies act as rules and guidelines that support efficient decision-making in routine situations. This will free up your time, as your employees and managers do not need to escalate simple enquiries for you to resolve.
Policies provide an opportunity for consistent and clear response across the company. You can always refer to the policies when making decisions.
Policies allow you to have a transparent and consistent method of dealing with complaints and misunderstandings, which will help you avoid subconscious bias and favouritism.
Policies offer you protection from breaches of employment legislation, such as equal opportunity laws.
What are the most common policies?
Code of Conduct
A Code of Conduct is vital for setting the standards of behaviour you expect from your employees. Common issues such as dress code, mobile phone use, punctuality and the use of company property will be included in a Code of Conduct. By outlining unacceptable behaviour and educating employees on business values through a policy, you are in a better position to manage unacceptable conduct in the workplace if and when it arises. This is a must-have for every business. Our free, editable policy package includes a copy of Code of Conduct.
Grievance Policy
Every business will have to deal with a workplace dispute at some point. Having a grievance policy in place acts as an important tool for employees to understand what the full process looks like and the required steps they should follow when handling a complaint. Our free, editable policy package includes a copy of Grievance Policy.
Work Health and Safety Policy
Workplace injuries have a major impact on your business in several ways including reduced productivity, boosted premiums, sick pay responsibilities and potentially the cost of recruiting a replacement. WHS policies clearly outline the safety procedures and the responsibilities of all employees to keep the workplace safe. Contact SCOPE & SEQUENCE Consulting today to receive tailored advice.
Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Policy
An employer can be held legally responsible for acts of discrimination or harassment in their business; therefore, the business should take all reasonable steps to prevent discrimination or harassment from occurring. In the absence of a comprehensive policy, this is almost impossible. Having a policy in place communicates clearly to employees what constitutes bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination, and any other form of inappropriate behaviour at work. Contact SCOPE & SEQUENCE Consulting today to receive tailored advice.
Leave Policy
For businesses that experience seasonal busy periods, a leave policy is extremely valuable. A leave policy can include restricted ‘blackout’ periods during the busiest phases as well as increased notice periods for employees applying for leave, to ensure your business can continue its operations. Contact SCOPE & SEQUENCE Consulting today to receive tailored advice.
Internet Policy
With the daily use of technology in businesses, it is important to manage inappropriate internet usage. An internet policy will identify what is inappropriate use of company computers, internet resources, social media accounts, as well as the consequences an employee may face for breaching the policy. Our free, editable policy package includes a copy of Internet Policy.
Confidentiality Policy
Employers have a responsibility to protect the personal information of employees and customers. Employees should also have the responsibility to safeguard the intellectual property of the company. Therefore, businesses must have a policy in place articulating how their private information is used and managed. A privacy policy makes it clear what information is allowed to be made public and what is required to stay private. Our free, editable policy package includes a copy of Confidentiality Policy
