Policies and Procedures Writing

from http://www.ehow.com/how_15568_write-policies-procedures.html

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Printers
• Binders
• Bonded Paper
• Computers
• Word-processing Software

1. • 1
     Involve front-line managers in putting together a policy and procedure manual, as they will be administering the policies.
   • 2
     Include statements that show your commitment to applicable state and federal laws in areas such as new hire reporting, equal employment opportunity, exempt and non-exempt employees, harassment, wages, and antidiscrimination.
   • 3
     Discuss mandated benefits such as social security; worker's compensation; unemployment; military, jury and familyleave; and school visitation rights.
   • 4
     Outline company policies, such as time-keeping; pay schedule; confidential information; use of mail, phone and e-mail privileges; probation period; performance reviews; and standards of conduct.
   • 5
     Offer information on benefits, such as holidays, vacation, retirement plans, insurance, leaves of absence and stock options.
   • 6
     Replace don'ts with dos. Use positive statements to describe company policies - instead of telling employees what they can't do, emphasize what they're expected to do.
   • 7
     Write clearly and keep the list of dos and don'ts reasonably short. Too much legal jargon will confuse your employees.
   • 8
     Have an employment law attorney review your manual before you issue it. This can save you thousands of dollars by protecting you from lawsuits down the road.

Tips & Warnings

• Have employees read your policy manual from cover-to-cover and have them sign a statement saying they have done so to avoid later confusion.
• Be careful in your use of language; you don't want to inadvertently create a legally binding contract. Avoid using words like "always." Use "generally" and "usually" instead. Leave room for the exceptions