Company Policy Key Terms

Get acquainted with company policy key terms that shape business practices

By Michele Vrouvas

One of the reasons companies thrive is organized management at multiple levels. Successful HR managers agree that solving problems begins at the prevention stage. When you effectively communicate—in writing—to your employees the behavior guidelines they are required to follow while at work, you are not only helping to avoid potential conflicts but you could also be protecting yourself from unwanted litigation. Here is an overview of company policy key terms to get you started on learning the ins and outs of this expansive subject.

Smoking in the workplace

A "smoking in the workplace policy" tells employees where in the company they may or may not smoke.
Try: Not only does Business Owner's Tool Kit explain the legal reasons behind the decision of most companies today to enact smoking in the workplace policies, it also provides real advice on points you should consider when starting such a policy in your company.

Telecommuting

As companies try to be more flexible in terms of employee schedules, many have enacted a telecommuting policy that states the conditions under which employees may work from home.
Try: At HR Village you can view a sample telecommuting policy. Find out about some common principles on telecommuting that you might want to include in your own policy.

Attendance policy

Though some employees may have a hard time believing it, companies across the board must have a well-defined attendance policy and let employees know that the hours they put in at work are under close scrutiny.
Try: Take a look at a sample attendance policy at Texas Workforce, especially the discussion of "good attendance habits."

Flex time policy

Many companies have recognized that the nine-to-five hours of the past are simply not possible or even not necessary for many employees today.
Try: Check out Womans Work for a comprehensive treatment of a flex time policy, including definition, eligibility, objectives and suggested flex time schedules.

Internet usage

Mostly to avoid costly litigation, companies today are framing Internet usage policies to let employees know when and if they are allowed access to the Internet and, if so, which websites are off- limits.
Try: Go straight to the source by reading the Internet usage policy discussion at the American Bar Association. Find out what the most common points employers make are as they draft these necessary policies.

Travel policy

When a company drafts a travel policy it explains how employees who must travel for their work are expected to handle the resulting expenses.
Try: Read Business & Legal Reports to learn about specific provisions you may want your travel policy to state. For example, consider whether you want to cover the cost of taxis and entertainment.