The memory of a recent overhaul and edit of an employee handbook was fresh in my mind as I came across an interesting thought from Sharlyn Lauby, the HR Bartender, in her post “The Book of No.” It came to Sharlyn’s attention that that’s what some of her colleagues called their employee manual! Her post is about turning that perception of negativity around by writing your handbook from a perspective of what we CAN do. It’s really worth a read… it gets a person to thinking about how very many outlets there are to fully communicate a company’s mission and attitude.

It got me thinking about handbooks, too, of course. They are there to clarify and crystallize business practices, set a standard of behavior, and communicate expectations and benefits to employees. One of my all-time favorites is this no-nonsense, brilliant, four-sentence employee policy by Punk Rock HR,  but of course most of you are probably looking for something a little more formal for your organization (wink).

Another thinker I like to check in with is Mr. HR, who regularly offers a “Handbook Tip of the Week” in his blog. (Click back through the archives on the left if you’re mid-handbook-project at the moment.)

Finally, I scoured the Web for some classic tips and mistakes to avoid on writing and updating (you update every year, don’t you? Not doing so is one of the top mistakes) your handbook. Briefly, here are the most common mistakes in the field:

• Failing to have the handbook reviewed by a lawyer: this is crucial, and worth the investment;
• Documenting federal, but neglecting state, laws;
• Writing above the heads of the audience (or using jargon-filled language);
• Neglecting to prominently display an at-will disclaimer (if applicable);
• Failing to obtain signed acknowledgment that each employee has received the handbook; and
• Not updating at least once a year — more often if procedures change.

With those thoughts in mind, take a look at your own organization’s handbook. Is it up to date? Too vague — or too specific? Does it describe current procedures, as they are handled now? While you’re studying the legalities and logistics, perhaps you’ll have a few moments to think about how to write this important document in such a way that your people aren’t calling it The Book of No.

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