First, look at your management structure. Younger, smaller companies with a small staff typically have one manager. Everyone reports to the CEO/owner. As your company grows and the staff expands, having all employees managed by one individual, no matter how good a people manager, becomes unwieldy very quickly. If your growth plans call for an expanding staff, start thinking about adding another layer of managers or supervisors. You can hire managers or offer lead employees the chance for development and promotion. If you go that route, don’t forget to consider training. Good management doesn’t just happen!

Second, look at your employment processes and paperwork. If you don’t already have one, it’s time to develop an Employee Policy Manual. There are several ways to tackle this particular task. You could draft the entire document yourself, but this might not be the wisest use of your time. You can use one of the many programs and templates available as a starting point and edit the document to fit your company. You can also go to outside professionals for assistance, such as your business advisor/consultant or your attorney. They can develop the manual with your input. Whatever method you choose, run the final copy past your attorney to make sure it covers you adequately.

Establishing and documenting information about company policies, employee benefits, and what you expect of your employees addresses two important goals. First, it protects you and your company legally. Second, it provides your employees with clear direction, something they will appreciate.

Our Lunch & Learn seminar, “The Purpose Driven Business – an intentional approach to achieving greater profit and success”, will be presented June 20th in Seattle and June 22nd in Bellevue, from 11:30 AM – 2:00PM. The cost is $25 and lunch will be provided. Seats are limited, so don’t delay! For more information or to register, call 425.918.1910, email info@nextstepsolutions.com, or visit our web site.