Creating an employee handbook and a code of conduct might seem challenging, but it’s crucial for setting the stage in any workplace. In this article, we’ll clarify the distinctions between these two essential documents, helping you understand their individual roles and importance. An employee handbook is your foundational tool for outlining company policies, setting clear expectations, and defining workplace culture. It’s vital for ensuring that everyone is informed and on the same page from day one.

Similarly, a code of conduct is key to establishing the ethical framework and behavioral expectations within your company. It helps maintain integrity and professionalism, outlining what is considered acceptable and unacceptable behavior.

Why focus on distinguishing these documents? While both are important, they serve different purposes and are used under different circumstances. Understanding these differences is not only beneficial for compliance but also for improving the effectiveness of your internal communications and governance. So, if you’re aiming to understand these concepts without getting lost in the complexity, stay tuned as we break down the specifics of each document, ensuring you can implement them effectively in your business.

Chances are you’re on the hunt to make your employee handbook a genuine guide that protects your team and your business, not just a snooze-fest of dos and don’ts. This ideal handbook goes beyond rigid rules; it’s a dynamic guide that reflects your company’s mission and values and supports your employees.

Why does it matter? Aside from shielding your company against legal disputes, a well-constructed handbook indicates that your company isn’t just going through the motions of legal compliance. It tells your team that their rights matter, they’re working in a company with purpose that respects and honors those rights, and it ensures everyone’s on the same page about what’s cool and what’s not at work.

Stick with us as we walk you through the required laws for your handbook, ensuring you’re ticking all the legal boxes while also keeping things approachable and relatable for your team of non-lawyer humans. Your handbook shouldn’t just be legally compliant; it should be a user-friendly resource that everyone in your company understands and values.

Your employee handbook serves as a guide for both new and existing employees, helping them navigate the company with ease. Creating an employee handbook may seem overwhelming at first, but we promise it’s worth the investment. 

To make your life easier, we’ve outlined the policies you should include in your employee handbook.

Since the U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022, the media has had plenty to talk about. States have quickly worked to pass laws, and organizers have been busy with demonstrations. Let’s not forget all of the in-depth analysis of the decision’s impact on upcoming elections. And, as expected, companies are issuing statements about how they’ll support employees in light of this long-standing change for women’s reproductive rights.

As the nation processes the implications of the decision, there’s a lot for HR professionals to navigate. In the simplest terms, we’ll tell you this: it’s complicated. Thankfully, we had a helpful discussion with attorney Amanda Farahany, a Managing Partner at Barrett & Farahany, who provided insight on some key workplace issues to consider.

Happy Leap Day Eve! Are you spending Leap Day in Anthony, Texas, the Leap Year Capital of the World? Come on! There’s going to be live music and dancing.

Since you’ve got an extra day this year, spend a little time reading some of the best HR, leadership, and policy management articles we found over the past couple weeks.

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Article of the Week: What are you doing to help those who are following in your footsteps? This week’s highlighted article reminds us how to pay it forward professionally (look for the ✦ below).

Happy Statehood Day to Oregon and Arizona! Oregon was admitted to the United States in 1859 (the 33rd state), while Arizona was a late arrival in 1912 (the 48th state). Who knew February 14th was so significant?

After you’re done celebrating Oregon and Arizona, take some time to peruse several of the best HR, leadership, and policy management articles we found over the past couple weeks.

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Article of the Week: No, we didn’t forget what day it is. For all you lovers (and haters) out there, what better day to revisit your workplace relationship policy? You’ll be smitten with this week’s highlighted article (look for the ✦ below).

Happy last-day-in-January! On this day in 1930, Scotch tape was first marketed by 3M. At least that’s their story, and they’re sticking to it… Ahem.

Before you call it a week, take a few minutes to check out some of the best HR, leadership, and policy management articles we found over the past couple weeks.

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Article of the Week: You know that feeling when your brain simply won’t stop firing? This week’s highlighted article gives some tips for silencing the noise. Get a load of this monk-y business (look for the ✦ below).

Surprise, it’s Friday! Are you truly astonished, or have you been counting down since, well, Sunday? Our latest pop-psych article delves into surprise in the workplace. By mixing in unfamiliar or unexpected experiences, you can help employees develop positive, lasting memories.

Up your knowledge game by reading some of the best HR, leadership, and policy management articles we found over the past couple weeks.

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Article of the Week: Having just celebrated World Kindness Day, this week’s featured article reminds us that small gestures can create a big impact. There’s even a bulleted list of ways to lift others. Try knocking one or two items out this weekend (look for the ✦ below).

Happy National Chocolate Cupcake Day! We know you’ve been counting down to this special day. But, seriously, National Chocolate Cupcake Day is apparently a thing, and a number of bakeries are offering specials. This day only happens once a year, folks.

Before you go satisfy your sweet tooth, take a look at some of the best HR, leadership, and policy management articles we found over the past couple weeks.

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Article of the Week: Do your eyes gloss over when reading your company’s values? By identifying why your company really matters, you can increase liking and unity in the workplace – and, in turn, engagement. Make sure your message resonates with employees (look for the ✦ below).

Are you ready to become one with the weekend? We are! Which reminds us (*terrible segue*)… We’re back with more original content. Our latest pop-psych article focuses on unity and its benefits in the workplace. And, in case you didn’t click now, you’ll get another chance very soon.

Before you make up a lame excuse to leave work to watch playoff baseball, spend a few minutes reading some of the best HR, leadership, and policy management articles we found over the past couple weeks.

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Article of the Week: No matter how busy we are, most of us make time for self-criticism. Why not spend that energy celebrating small victories instead? The BIG successes are made possible by the mini-wins along the way (look for the ✦ below).