Geelong Business Bootcamp 2016 - Essential HR Policies

Business BootcampEssential Policies

• Why we need HR policies and procedures• What they should include• Top 5 Essential Policies• Recommended Additional Polices• How to use them as a management tool

What will I cover?

HR Policies and Procedures

What are policies and procedures?

They are “the way we do things around here”.


Why do we need to write them down?

A structured approach will help you to ensure:•you meet your basic legal obligations •managers make consistent and reliable decisions•you promotes a culture of fairness•a clear understanding of expectations, rules and consequences•that you welcome employees to your business professionally


Difference between a Policy and a Procedure

A policy is a guiding principle (e.g.: we don’t tolerate workplace bullying).

A procedure lists tangible steps or processes by which the policy is implemented.


Manual v individual policies

There is no right or wrong approach.

HR Policies and ProceduresWhat to include?

Policy StatementA broad overview of the purpose of the policy and what the policy is.

DefinitionsClear definitions to help the reader understand the content.

ProcedureHow the policy will be implemented and details on the obligations of both the employee and employer.

ConsequencesWhat are the consequences if an employee breaches the policy?

• Code of Conduct• Workplace Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination• IT – Email, Internet and Social Media• Grievance Procedure• Occupational Health and Safety

Essential PoliciesTop 5


Code of ConductAn expectation for employees to maintain a high standard of conduct and work performance to ensure the business maintains its good reputation with customers and suppliers.

• Personal Conduct• Professional Conduct• Company Reputation• Dress Code• Use of Mobile Phones


Workplace Bullying, Harassment and DiscriminationProvide a clear definition of what is acceptable workplace behaviour and the consequences of inappropriate behaviour.

• EEO (Equal Opportunity Employer)• Discrimination• Harassment• Workplace Bullying• What to do if it happens to you• How the company will manage a complaint• Victimisation• Consequences for breach of policy


IT – Email, Internet and Social MediaThis policy should set out the rights and responsibilities of users of email, internet and social media; and acceptable and unacceptable use of these technologies.

• Internet access and use• Email use• Social Media – professional and personal• Privacy• Consequences for breach of policy


Grievance ProcedureHow to lodge a grievance with if an employee believes a decision, behaviour or action affecting their employment is unfair.

• How to make a complaint• How to receive a complaint• How to investigate a complaint


Occupational Health and SafetyOverall policy on your approach to OHS in the workplace.

• Management obligations• Employee Obligations• Injury Management• Return to Work• Smoking in the Workplace• Drugs and Alcohol

• Leave Policy• Overtime and Time in Lieu• Vehicle and Driving Policy• Performance Improvement and Discipline• Flexible Working Arrangements• Gifts and Gratuities• Training and Development• Recruitment

Essential PoliciesOther Policies to Consider


Management ToolsTo be effective, they need to be:•available•understood•referenced

HR Policies and ProceduresQuestions?

Where can you find us?

www.strawberryseed.com.au