Leading a team that is miles apart goes beyond simply strategizing to keep employees aligned with business goals amidst differences such as time zones and cultural nuances. While remote work allows employers to access a broader talent pool by reaching beyond their geographical borders, it also introduces challenges in ensuring that employees feel at home, especially starting from day one during welcoming them onboard.
A recent survey from HBR revealed a striking insight: only 52% of new hires are satisfied with their onboarding experience, while nearly a third find it confusing and another 22% deem it disorganized. And 85% of respondents that having employee handbook says that it could improves the onboarding experience.
To ensure your every team member starts on the right foot, employers can consider saving the employee handbook in the toolbelt.
A well-crafted employee handbook isn’t just a manual – it’s a roadmap for day one and beyond. It seamlessly integrates everything a new hire needs to know—from organization’s core values and mission to the intricacies of the company culture and the essential workplace policies and procedures.
Employee handbook provide visibility for everyone
A research shows how employees that have clarity in their work roles are 53% more efficient than those who don’t. From the employee handbook, employers can provide a clear idea of expectation for employees and what their expectations are from the company. This can include employee benefit, attendance expectations, dress code, time off procedures, and more.
A way for better communicating organization’s company culture
According to a survey from TeamStage, 46% of talents believe that company culture is an essential factor when it comes to the decision of accepting an offer. Providing a clear workplace culture can help employees understand better about the organization’s purpose – mission, vision, and goals.
Improves your employee’s onboarding
When welcoming new team members, it’s essential to ensure they’re aligned with your company’s vision and specific objectives. This well-crafted employee handbook serves as a comprehensive guide, covering all the essentials new hires need to know about your organization.
A recent survey shows that 86% of companies use handbooks for a smoother start. These guides are packed with all the info newcomers need, making those first days less daunting and more productive. With a solid handbook, you’re not just showing new hires the ropes—you’re setting them up for success.
There is no wrong or right way, but there are best practices that employers can look at. Think of it as your go-to guide for all the things your employee wants to know but might hesitate to ask. So, here is some points to cover:
Each of these handbooks has elements that make them effective communication tools, not just for conveying rules but for building a sense of community and shared purpose among employees. When designing your own, consider what aspects of your company culture you want to highlight and how you can make the handbook not only useful but also a reflection of your organizational identity. Here are a few that employers can look at to get some inspiration.
At Valve, they toss the traditional hierarchy out the window and embrace a flat organizational structure. This approach is all about trusting employees to steer their own ships. It’s designed to push creativity and foster a strong sense of ownership, encouraging everyone at Valve to make decisions that push the company forward. The handbook serves as a guide to navigating this unique environment, emphasizing trust and freedom as foundational elements of the workplace culture.
Netflix’s culture deck turns the usual rules on their head. It’s not just about doing your job but doing it creatively and responsibly. This balance of freedom and responsibility keeps standards high and innovations coming, all while making sure everyone knows what’s expected.
HubSpot’s Culture Code isn’t just a set of rules—it’s about living out the company’s mission every day. It makes transparency and values the heart of its strategy, turning every employee into a key player. This approach not only informs but empowers, aligning everyone with where the company is headed.
GitLab’s handbook is a comprehensive guide that leaves no stone unturned. It covers everything from company values to the minutiae of daily policies, making it a vital resource especially for teams that operate remotely. The level of detail ensures that every team member, regardless of location, can understand their role and responsibilities clearly, supporting GitLab’s open and transparent work culture.
Basecamp’s handbook focuses on remote work and clear communication. It’s all about creating a calm, efficient work environment.
Now that you’re inspired by some examples, it’s time to create your own employee handbook. Here are some tips to get you started:
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