Making the decision to launch a new business is exciting (and also a bit daunting at times). You’ve spent so much time developing a sound business plan, anticipating sustainable growth, and securing funding to open and operate your business—so why not take every opportunity to protect the health and longevity of this significant investment? Any business that relies on employees needs to establish and implement effective employment policies from the start to ensure that these key relationships remain stable, strong, and functional as the business moves forward and evolves. Many small businesses depend on cultivating high-quality relationships with their employees in order to succeed. In fact, nearly half of all employees in the United States are employed by a small business. Although the majority of small businesses have no employees, those that do work hard to keep their workers safe and happy.
If you are considering launching a small business in Colorado and you hope to employ workers as part of your business model, you will need to establish clear and effective employee policies as soon as possible. While the prospect of creating an employee handbook may seem intimidating or overwhelming, you do not have to tackle this project on your own. Enlisting the guidance and support of a knowledgeable and experienced Colorado business law attorney can give you the confidence and peace of mind you need to build the strongest foundation possible that sets your business up for a successful future. Let’s take a look at why employee policies are important for small business owners and some helpful tips for creating clear and effective employment policies that will maximize your chances of enjoying a bright and stable future.
Why Are Employee Policies Important For Small Businesses?
First, it’s helpful to understand why it’s crucial for small businesses to create clear and thoughtful employment policies. Essentially, employment policies clarify the relationship between the business owner, the people you hire, and the business itself. As you lay the foundation for your small business, you can put together an employee handbook that details the policies, procedures, rules, and responsibilities relating to a worker’s employment with your company. Generally speaking, the sooner you create an employee handbook, the fewer issues or potential disputes your business may encounter when onboarding new employees. Although there are plenty of templates or examples of employee handbooks available online, it’s important to recognize that these resources tend to be too broad and generic. Unfortunately, vague employment policies or overly general employee handbooks can leave your business vulnerable to legal disputes later on. Most small business owners find that the upfront cost of working with a highly qualified Colorado business lawyer is worth the initial investment, as developing and instituting customized and thorough employment policies will likely save your business from the costs of litigation or other problems that often arise from poorly written employee handbooks.
How to Create Employee Policies That Protect Your Business
As you turn your attention to drafting an effective employee handbook for your small business, consider working alongside a dedicated business lawyer in Colorado to move through this process as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Just as no two businesses are identical, employee handbooks should address the unique needs and considerations of each individual small business. While the specific language and policies of the employee handbooks should vary from business to business, there are some common topics that every small business should address in their employment policies and employee manuals. Below are some of the main policies that your small business should include in your employee handbook.
Hiring and Onboarding Policies
Your employee handbook should address the company’s policies and procedures for onboarding newly hired workers. Include an equal opportunity statement that acknowledges your company’s commitment to fair employment practices. You should also include a conflict of interest statement, some form of confidentiality agreement, and any general details that new employees should know about the business structure and contact information of those in supervisory positions.
Code of Conduct
Since employees will be part of a team, they should understand the workplace culture and environment, as well as the expectations for participating in this environment. For example, you can use this section to provide details about a dress code policy (if applicable) and remind employees that the workplace is substance-free and that acts of discrimination or harassment will not be tolerated. Your business law attorney can help you specify how violations will be handled if they arise and the policies for disciplinary actions that accompany such violations.
Workplace Environment
New employees should understand their work hours and know when they can expect to take lunch breaks during the day. You can also use your employee handbook to address your company’s work-from-home policies or guidelines. It’s a good idea to include details as to how your business plans to provide accommodations for employees in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) should these requests be made. If your business has guidelines or expectations about communication policies, such as whether employees should avoid posting information about the business using their personal social media accounts, you can include this information in your employment policies handbook.
Learn More About Employment Policies for Small Businesses
There are so many details to think about when you are preparing to launch a small business. It’s understandable that you want to open your doors as quickly as possible, but try to do so as mindfully and strategically as possible. Taking the time to put comprehensive and thoughtful protections and policies in place before you speed ahead is almost always worth the initial investment—safeguarding your business from potential legal headaches will likely save you considerable money, time, and energy in the long run. If you are ready to set your new Colorado business up for the success it deserves, reach out to a dedicated and caring business law attorney to get started.
If you are launching a small business and you have questions about establishing clear and effective employment policies, give Judex Law, LLC, a call today at (303) 523-4022 to discuss your goals with a dedicated and friendly Colorado business law attorney.
