What is an Employee Handbook?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
An employee handbook<\/a> is a comprehensive document that outlines important information, policies, and guidelines for employees. It serves as a reference guide, offering employees a clear understanding of the company’s expectations, rules, and procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The typical handbook covers employment policies, codes of conduct, benefits, policies governing leaves, and other information to help employees navigate their roles and responsibilities within your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want the nitty-gritty details, check out <\/strong>How to Create an Employee Handbook<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An employee handbook should provide a detailed overview of your organization\u2019s practices, goals, and structures. It includes essential company information and policies<\/a> that set employees up for success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the contents of each employee handbook will vary, here are some elements common to most employee handbooks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should review and update your employee handbook regularly . This helps ensure employees are viewing information that complies with the latest laws, regulations, and company policies or procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We provide greater detail in this article: What Should an Employee Handbook Include?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are some shining examples of employee handbooks that are memorable and stand out from the rest. These handbooks go beyond what\u2019s routine, instead capturing attention with their innovation, engaging content, and alignment with company culture<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s explore these five inspirational employee handbooks and highlight what makes them unique. They are full of ideas to help you create a one-of-a-kind employee handbook that reflects your company\u2019s individuality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Software company Valve Corporation<\/a> has earned a reputation for its groundbreaking contributions to the gaming industry. With its uniquely flat organizational structure and innovative approach to product development, Valve continues to redefine the boundaries of creativity and player-centric experiences. It\u2019s no surprise then that its employee handbook is more than your ordinary corporate document.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Valve\u2019s employee handbook was leaked in 2012 and immediately went viral. The handbook’s popularity can be attributed to its humorous illustrations that add a refreshing twist to what is often seen as dry and legalistic content. In a witty and enjoyable tone, Valve’s handbook reflects the company’s \u2018Flatland<\/a>\u2019 structure and exudes a strong sense of personality and irreverence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A key strength of Valve’s handbook is its candid and conversational style<\/strong>. It reads like a genuine conversation between a seasoned employee and a newcomer, addressing common questions and concerns in a relatable manner. This approach fosters a sense of connection and encourages open communication within the company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to its entertainment value, the Valve employee handbook is highly informative. It provides insights into the company’s cultural nuances, lingo, and day-to-day operations, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to navigate their roles. The handbook covers a wide range of topics, including practical details like desk-moving instructions, demonstrating its comprehensive nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Footwear and apparel e-tailer Zappos<\/a> is known for its innovative and vibrant work culture. The company demonstrates its creative ethos with an annual employee handbook edition. One standout example is its comic book-themed handbook<\/a>, designed to inform employees in a uniquely entertaining way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The comic book theme permeates every aspect of this handbook, from the superhero-inspired cover to the \u2018advertisements\u2019 that highlight different company departments. The HR department, for instance, is introduced in the form of an ad for a pizza delivery company.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Should an Employee Handbook Include?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
5 Examples of Stellar Employee Handbooks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Example 1 – Valve Corporation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blissbook.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Valve-Corporation-Employee-Handbook-Example-1.png\")
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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nExample 2 – Zappos<\/h3>\n\n\n\n