Handbook Content

7 Basic Employee Handbook Templates for Your Company

Whether you’re an HR manager trying to breathe new life into your company’s policies or a business owner creating your first handbook, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll talk about what an employee handbook is, the benefits of handbook templates, and factors to consider when choosing a template. 

We’ve compiled a list of basic employee handbook templates to help inspire your handbook creation process. Most of the templates we’ll feature are suitable for companies with fewer than 50 employees — people looking to create simple handbooks housed in Notion, ClickUp, another wiki tool, or in a Word doc or PDF. However, we’ll discuss some more advanced options, too.

We’ll also go over template customization and implementation, followed by best practices for handbook maintenance.

What Should an Employee Handbook Include?

Workplace success often boils down to clear communication, and your employee handbook plays a major role in getting everyone on the same page. Fostering a harmonious and productive work environment requires more than just a competent team. It demands a clear understanding of your company culture, policies and procedures, and expectations.

In this article, we’ll unravel the complexities of creating an effective employee handbook, breaking the process down into simple steps. So, whether you’re refining an existing handbook or starting from scratch, our practical tips will help you create a successful handbook.

7 Guidelines You Should Know When Creating an Employee Handbook

An employee handbook should do more than gather dust on a shelf. So, what does it take to create an effective employee handbook that strikes the balance between workplace policies and the nuances of your company culture?

In this article, we’ll walk you through seven guidelines to keep in mind as you craft or refine your employee handbook. We’ll even provide actionable tips and share best practices to inspire you along the way.

By the end of this read, you’ll be well equipped to create an employee handbook that protects your company while building a productive and inclusive work environment.

Let’s get started!

Why Should You Create an Employee Handbook?

An employee handbook serves many purposes — it’s a tour guide, a rule referee, and a cultural compass all in one. When done correctly, an employee handbook is a living, breathing document that cultivates understanding, facilitates communication, and creates a shared sense of purpose among your diverse team. 

But that’s just the beginning.

Let’s explore the benefits of employee handbooks and the ways they supercharge engagement, communicate policies and procedures, and set your organization up for success.

What is an Employee Handbook?

Are you creating your first handbook or overhauling an outdated handbook? No matter where you are on this journey, it’s important you understand the employee handbook basics.

When done effectively, an employee handbook is one of the most valuable items in your HR toolkit. It’s more than a mere list of dos and don’ts; it’s a comprehensive guide that can set your organization up for success.

We’ll explain why you need an employee handbook, how to structure your handbook, and ways to implement your handbook. Let’s get started!

4 Best Multi-State Employee Handbook Software Platforms

This article will provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary to develop a multi-state employee handbook easily and confidently. We’ve done our research and handpicked the three best multi-state employee handbook software solutions. 

Creating an employee handbook can be daunting for even the most experienced HR professional — and that’s when you’re contending with just one handbook. The job becomes even more complicated if you operate in multiple states and jurisdictions, each with its own set of laws and regulations. 

Let’s explore the best multi-state employee handbook software and what each one offers.

5 Best Employee Handbook Examples

Say goodbye to the days of long, boring handbooks that evoked yawns and glazed looks from employees everywhere. There’s a whole world of outstanding and unputdownable employee handbooks that convey policies and procedures in a way that engages and ignites a sense of belonging among workers. 

We’ve compiled five examples to show you creative ways to present information and foster a positive work culture. Whether you’re creating a new employee handbook or revamping an existing one, these examples provide valuable inspiration and guidance.

Let’s dive into some exceptional employee handbooks and uncover what makes them stand out.

Employee Handbook vs. Policy Manual: Differences

“Employee handbook” and “policy manual” might sound like interchangeable terms, but they’re two separate items, each with their own distinct purpose. 

By understanding the differences between an employee handbook and a policy manual, your company can ensure the right people have access to the appropriate level of information. Properly documented and communicated policies can also help you minimize liability risks in the workplace.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about employee handbooks and policy manuals, including their purpose, contents, and requirements. 

We’ll also highlight the main differences between the two documents. 

Let’s take a closer look at how to distinguish between employee handbooks and policy manuals.

How to Add a Signature Page to Your Employee Handbook

A signature page gives an employee handbook its power, so it should be a priority when developing your handbook content. Though it can be easy to get caught up in the ins and outs of the policies themselves, your signature or acknowledgement page is what makes things official. By signing, employees affirm that they’ve read the expectations detailed on the acknowledgement page.

In this article, we’ll explore signature pages from all angles, including what they are, best practices (with examples), and how to create and design an effective signature page for your employee handbook.

Let’s get down to signing business!

How to Create a Welcome Statement for an Employee Handbook

Welcome statements are the first thing employees read when they join an organization and review the employee handbook. Your welcome statement sets the tone for the work culture and makes a lasting impression on new hires. Plus, current employees may re-read it when they look to the employee handbook for answers to questions.

Creating an effective welcome statement is crucial for companies that want to build a positive and productive work environment. 

In this article, we’ll discuss what a welcome statement is, why it’s important, and how to create one that sets the right tone for your organization. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the guidelines for writing a welcome statement, examples of effective welcome statements, and a detailed process for crafting your own. 

Let’s dive in!