When a candidate is offered employment by an organization and accepts, an informal type of legal contract is created. The employee is providing work to the employer and the worker is paid for his or her service. However, there are other issues in the workplace that expand on this concept. New employees need to be made aware of what is expected of them and the rules and procedures of the employer. A comprehensive new hire information packet serves this purpose.
Read on to learn what should be included in every new hire packet:
Introductory Letter
Most new employees are usually informed in writing that they have received an offer of employment. Sometimes, this may be in the form of a phone call or email. New employees when they first start should be given a letter of introduction. It should welcome them to the organization It should give information about the company and what they do so new employees have a feeling of inclusion in the workplace.
Employee Handbook
New employees should be given a company’s employee handbook to understand the policies and procedures of the organization. Information like this may or may not have been included in the interviews for their job. Information should include vacation policy, scheduled holidays, dress code, and other policies such as flex hours. A part of the handbook should be signed by the employee verifying they read and understood it. Individual companies can decide if these books need to be signed in the presence of a company representative.
Benefits Information
New employees need to be made aware of what kinds of benefits may be available. Health insurance programs should be presented in writing. The rates of different plans should be given based on rates for single individuals and families. If companies have policies for open enrollment periods, these need to be included. New hires should be advised when they are eligible for medical benefits. If a company offers options like flex spending, this needs to be explained. Even if an employee is new retirement programs should be described.
Legal Employment Forms
There are forms that need to be completed as part of being an employee. Forms for tax purposes like the w-4 need to be filled out to see if the employee is single, married, and has dependents. People may have certain backgrounds that can benefit them and the employer. If a new employee is a veteran, federal benefits may be available to the employer. People with disabilities may need special accommodations that need to be explained. This information needs to be treated with confidentiality.
A good introductory packet helps new employees understand what is required of them. It also helps them feel part of an organization. A comprehensive set of information backed up with knowledgeable staff that can answer any questions helps employees at the start of their career.