What are Organisational Policies?
Policies are used in a workplace context to provide leaders and individuals with information and guidance around the key practices and obligations of a business. They define what an individual can expect from a business and what a business can expect from team members. Policy obliges individuals (both leaders and team members) to be consistent in their approach and treatment of others, and to be aligned with the expectations of the business. Examples of organisational policies are below.
Workplace policies can cover a range of areas including:
- Legislative obligations (including Work Health and Safety, Leave, Bullying, Sexual Harassment)
- Workplace-specific practices (working from home, use of IT, social media)
- Workplace-specific benefits (volunteering, bonus systems, share plans)
At mwah. we recommend implementing a suite of workplace policies that cover the things that really matter to the business. Keep key policies short and specific to ensure team members can easily and quickly understand the requirements of the policies and how to apply them.
At all costs, avoid introducing a large volume of over-complicated policies designed to “protect” the business. This approach can often overwhelm individuals and create a culture of ticking policy boxes, as opposed to creating a great, safe space for people to work together.
When is a policy required by law?
Policies are required by law in times where businesses and individual team members have formal rights and/or obligations around their behaviour that are confirmed by legislation. Examples of organisational policies that businesses should have by law include:
- Bullying & Harassment
- Sexual Harassment
- Grievance Management
- Equal Employment Opportunity and Discrimination
- Redundancy
- Maternity & Parental Leave
- Resignation
- Leave
- Flexible Work
Note: there may also be some legislative requirements for specific policies required in your industry.
