What is an employee handbook primarily designed to do?

An employee handbook is fundamentally designed to outline company policies, procedures, and expectations. This primary purpose serves to communicate essential information to employees regarding their rights and responsibilities within the organization. Clear documentation of policies helps set standards for behavior, performance expectations, and the processes for addressing various workplace issues. By establishing these guidelines, the handbook contributes to consistent management practices and can help mitigate legal risks by ensuring that employees are aware of workplace rules and regulations.

While it may include a list of employee benefits and salaries, as well as emergency procedures and details about the company’s products and services, these elements are typically secondary to the core function of laying out the overall expectations and policies that govern the employment relationship. The focus on policies helps foster a clear and professional work environment, ensuring that all employees understand what is expected of them and what they can expect in return from their employer.