Tips to Begin a New Workplace Procedure

Corporate Business Solutions is recognized for our exceptional ability to create and implement new policies and procedures that help small and medium – size businesses thrive and grow in their respected industries.  

Common workplace policies may include:

• code of conduct
• recruitment policy
• internet and email policy
• mobile phone policy
• social media policy
• non-smoking policy
• drug and alcohol policy
• health and safety policy
• anti-discrimination and harassment policy

If you’ve already established the need of a new policy in your business, here are tips that may help you ensure a successful implementation:

1. Management support - It is crucial to have management support for the implementation or modification of a policy, especially where policies relate to employee behavior. The endorsement and modeling of the behavior by managers and supervisors will encourage staff to take the policies seriously. While management support for a policy is an important first step before actively seeking employee feedback on a proposed policy, the idea for the policy and some of its details may in fact come from staff.
2. Consult with staff - Involve staff in developing and implementing workplace policies to promote stronger awareness, understanding and ownership of the outcome. Staff involvement also helps to determine how and when the policies might apply, and can assist in identifying possible unintentional outcomes of the policy.
3. Define the terms of the policy- Be very specific. Define key terms used in the policy at the beginning so that employees understand what is meant. You may wish to include specific examples to illustrate problem areas or unacceptable types of behaviors.
4. Publicize the new policies - To be effective, policies need to be publicized and provided to all existing and new employees. Policies should be written so it can be easily understood by all employees. Ensure all staff understand what the policies mean, how to comply with the policies and the implications of not complying.
5. Training and regular referral- The policies may be explained to staff through information and/or training sessions, at staff meetings and during induction sessions for new staff. They should also be reiterated and discussed with staff regularly at staff meetings to ensure they remain relevant. Copies of policies should be easily accessible. 
6. Implementation- It is important that policies are applied consistently throughout the workplace. A breach of a policy should be dealt with promptly and according to the procedures set out in the policy. The consequence of the breach should also suit the severity of the breach – whether it be a warning, disciplinary action or dismissal.
7. Evaluate and review - Review policies regularly to ensure they are current and in line with any changes. Where policies are significantly changed they should be re-issued to all staff and the changes explained to them to ensure they understand the new directions. These changes should also be widely publicized.

To learn more about us and / or to schedule your complimentary appointment with the business experts at Corporate Business Solutions, call us at 877-357-9366.