5 Tips on Developing an Employee Handbook

Some company policies have to be in writing—such as policies on sexual harassment and discipline—so that employees know what is expected of them. These can form the basis of an employee manual.

Draft your employee handbook yourself or assign someone else in the company to do it. Then have it reviewed and fine-tuned by your lawyer.

Include a disclaimer stating clearly that the manual is in no way a legal contract.

Visit the SBA at www.sba.gov and search for "employee handbook" to find several relevant articles on creating an effective employee handbook and human resources management.

Make sure every employee receives a copy of the handbook and signs a statement saying they’ve read it. Review it every six months or so and update it as needed.