Are Your Company Policies out of Date? 4 Tips to Help You Update Them

As the leading energy recruitment firm, FootBridge Energy Services knows that employment laws and regulations are ever-changing and it can be hard to keep up. But it’s important to ensure your policies are regularly updated and in compliance with current law. If they’re not, and a legal claim should arise, outdated company policies could be used against you in a court of law, landing you in legal hot water.

If your company policies need some brushing up, where do you begin? Follow these four tips:

Tip #1: Start with an audit.

Begin with an audit of all your existing policies to make sure they meet your business needs and also reflect current employment and benefits laws, as well as management best practices. You should be evaluating internal guidelines and procedures for issues such as sexual harassment, FMLA, technology and phone usage, dress code, flexible and remote work hours, vacation and PTO. Also make sure you have hot topics covered, including social media and break time for nursing mothers.

When you’re evaluating each policy, ask yourself these questions:

• Is this policy legal and enforceable?
• Is it communicated in such a way that it’s understandable?
• Does this policy meet business and management needs?
• Should there be any changes or updates made to it?

Tip #2: Consult with stakeholders.

When you’re making updates to existing policies or writing new ones altogether, consult with HR, management and other stakeholders in the company. For example, if you’re trying to develop a social media policy and establish rules around it, you want to ensure you engage leaders in your IT department in the effort.

Tip #3: Get advice from an employment lawyer.

If there are any areas that are hazy or you’re not certain about, make sure you consult with an employment lawyer. An attorney will know about changes to pertinent laws and mandates and how they can impact your company. They’ll also be able to answer your questions, as well as clarify any issues you have concerns with.

Tip #4: Communicate changes to your staff.

Once changes have been made or new policies written, make sure your employees are in the loop. And don’t just tell them about the changes verbally; you should also give them hard copies and email them updates, as well. And don’t forget to obtain an acknowledgement in writing that your employees have reviewed and understand the new policies.

Why is the process so important? For two reasons: 1) You want to ensure your people understand company policies and are compliant with them, and 2) You want to ensure your company is protected should a legal claim be filed.

Do you need more help with these and other staffing-related issues? Call the team at FootBridge Energy Services. As one of the leading energy recruiting firms in the United States, our goal is to help your company overcome your biggest HR and staffing challenges, all so you can focus on other priorities and grow your business. Contact us today to learn more.