Lauren LevineWhile often overlooked, an employee handbook is an important part of any organization. It helps to set the tone of that company, and let’s new hires and veterans know what is expected of them. However, many recruiters often forget that an employee handbook can also serve as an important recruiting tool. When a person knows that they will enter a job with a clear idea of what is expected of them and how that organization operates, they’re likely to feel more comfortable coming on board.
It’s common for employees to complain that they hate their job because expectations change and policies are never the same from one day to the next. When it’s clear that this isn’t the case at your group, it’s appealing to a potential new hire. So how do you make sure that your employee handbook is working for you? Consider these tips:
Make sure the writing style is in line with the company’s culture
Consistency is a must when it comes to anything pertaining to your business. If the employee handbook comes across as very loose and relaxed but the expectations from upper management are actually quite defined and rigid, your employee handbook isn’t working properly. Make sure the handbook accurately reflects exactly what goes on in that business.
Don’t use a lot of jargon
New hires and veterans alike turn to an employee handbook for guidance in order to navigate various situations that they may encounter during their time at the office. If your handbook is full of legal terms and business slang, the person who is trying to learn from the handbook may feel confused. Make sure the writing style is conversational, and that the material that is conveyed is easy to understand.
List your company’s benefits and unique perks
Employees love unique perks, whether it’s a quiet place for employees to nap or Beer Fridays. The employee handbook provides the perfect platform to reinforce these unique benefits, making sure that all employees take full advantage of these perks. Even if everyone is well aware of the benefits that separate this business from others, it’s important to reinforce them.
When an employee handbook is consistent, clear, and detailed, it acts as a useful tool for all of the staff members who work at that company. Knowing that the company protocol is well defined also provides an additional level of appeal to a potential new hire.
How do you use your company’s handbook as a recruiting tool? What do you think constitutes an effective handbook?
Guest Post
Spark Hire
