Get started with a simple ‘HR health check’ to help you assess whether your business has the building blocks in place for effective people management. Starting from a solid foundation can really benefit your business, saving you time in the long run and reducing the likelihood of issues arising.
Ask yourself, does your business:
- Have the necessary employment documentation in place – principal statement of terms of employment and employee handbook? If so, do these work for your business, and are they up to date? (The same goes for any workplace policies and procedures)
- Clearly and effectively communicate workplace rules/expectations for performance, with periodic reminders as appropriate. If everyone is clear what’s expected, you’re more likely to see the actions you want
- Have an awareness of some of the key ways of preventing HR issues from arising? For example, treating employees fairly, reasonably and consistently, following appropriate processes when required, e.g. a disciplinary process if an employee has sufficient service to claim ordinary unfair dismissal
- Provide managers with the training and support they need. On a basic level those with people management responsibilities need to be able to at least spot key issues when they arise, e.g. recognising a grievance, knowing when an employee is ‘blowing the whistle’, identifying when there may be a sickness absence or performance issue, having an awareness of when reasonable adjustments for a disabled employee may be required, recognising a statutory flexible working request
- Keep adequate records? If an employee challenges how they have been treated, being able to evidence you have acted appropriately will help to protect your business, whether it’s dealing with an internal grievance or defending your position at an employment tribunal
Need some help in setting up for success or would like to make some changes to put your business in a better position? Get in touch