Business owners should know how to write a handbook in order to present employees with the guidelines, rules and regulations that govern the company. This reference handbook should be accessible to all employees so that everyone reaches the same understanding on set issues within the company.
Decide The Content
Whether you are covering some company policies, explaining the employee health care plan or outlining the protocol for customer service, an employee handbook must contain information that is important to know. It should also consist of information that applies to everyone in the company-avoid selective policies whenever possible. Finding the balance between enough information and too much is tricky. Often, it's better to start writing a little more than you might need so that you can edit and condense later.
Keep It Simple
A handbook is no place for comedy writing, poetic phrases or wordy legalese. A company handbook should be written so that a variety of people can understand it. Use simple sentence construction, and avoid passive voice. A handbook should be actionable and concise. When choosing an important word, think carefully if there is a simpler synonym that could take its place. Be sure to have test readers go through the first few drafts to ensure the message is being communicated.
Correctness
Since a company handbook will usually be a reference handbook for everyone on a variety of different policies, it is essential that it is correct. Set aside some time to perform fact-checking duties to verify that the information in the handbook is current. Especially if you are creating a handbook that contains new information, procedures or policies, it's imperative that the instructions and guidelines are correct.
Legal Input
Because an employee handbook is an official company document, and an important one at that, make sure the company attorney reads it and makes corrections. The attorney will be able to spot any potential legal issues, such as discriminatory language, contradictions in policy and compliance with laws and regulations on the state and federal level. Follow the attorney's advice on any changes to the handbook text.
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