Let's face it: Managing a dental practice takes a lot of time.  Whether you are a single Dentist practice or a multi-dentist specialty practice, you barely have time to see all your patients.  Reviewing your Employee Handbook is the last thing on your mind.  Until something happens that makes you wish you had. Here are some top reasons to review your Employee Handbook and have your staff sign one annually and upon hiring.

1. Clear Expectations: An employee handbook sets clear expectations regarding company policies, job responsibilities, and workplace behavior, helping employees understand what is expected of them.
2. Consistency in Communication: It ensures that policies and procedures are communicated consistently across the organization, minimizing misunderstandings and promoting fairness.
3. Legal Protection: A well-documented handbook can serve as a legal safeguard by outlining compliance with employment laws (e.g., harassment policies and anti-discrimination laws), helping to protect the organization against legal disputes.
4. Onboarding Tool: It acts as a valuable resource for new employees, providing them with important information about the company culture, benefits, procedures, and expectations, which can aid in smoother onboarding.
5. Employee Rights and Benefits: The handbook details employee rights, benefits, and resources available to them, ensuring they are informed about what they can expect as part of their employment.
6. Conflict Resolution Framework: Having clear procedures for handling grievances and resolving conflicts can help reduce tensions and disputes in the workplace.
7. Performance and Evaluation: It can outline performance review processes and criteria, guiding employees on how they will be evaluated and what goals they should strive to achieve.
8. Workplace Policies: The handbook provides guidelines on various workplace policies, including attendance, remote work, dress code, and use of company property, promoting a professional environment.
9. Employee Development: The handbook can encourage employee growth and development within the organization by highlighting opportunities for training and advancement.
10. Crisis Management: It can include procedures for emergencies (e.g., workplace violence, natural disasters) and outline the company's response plans, ensuring employees know how to react in crisis situations.
11. Promoting Company Culture: The handbook can communicate the company’s mission, vision, values, and culture, helping employees understand its core principles and how they fit into the bigger picture.

Having a well-crafted employee handbook is beneficial for both employees and employers. It promotes a positive work environment and helps mitigate potential issues.  I have witnessed how a thorough and well-articulated Employee Handbook can save a practice from costly legal action from a disgruntled employee. If you need assistance reviewing or writing your Employee Handbook, please get in touch with us at 208-606-5869 or info@precisedentalaccounting.com.  Our compliance team will work with you to ensure you have a handbook that protects your employees and your practice.

Leah Aslett, CPB - Partner