10 Feb A reminder: please read your HR policies

I’ve been blogging about the importance of employees reading their organisations HR policies and procedures for a while. Yet many people (for whatever reason) are still failing to carry out this critical responsibility – a quick look at your staff handbook, job description, person specification, and employment contract will bear me out. It is the employee’s responsibility to familiarise and work per policies and procedures.

Ignorance is not bliss

Unfortunately, I am still hearing of situations where people have not read their organisation’s HR policies even while facing potentially severe consequences, up to and including dismissal. It is akin to operating blindfolded or, with both hands tied behind their backs. Very frustrating and frightening.

I am confident that if any of those individuals could go back in time, they would take their responsibilities seriously and happily read the processes. While it may not address all of their issues, it would certainly mitigate some of them.

Take action

So, here are some suggestions to help you read your HR policies sooner rather than later.

1. Put the dedicated time in your diary to read the policies (like right away). I suggest reading the disciplinary, grievance and sickness procedures at a minimum. (You can count this activity towards your continued personal development).
2. Find a quiet, uninterrupted space (ok, I know a lot of you are working from home and homeschooling, or are front line workers, so, it may be a challenge but, give it a try).
3. Invite your HR team member to attend your team meetings and explain vital policy points (remember you are still responsible for doing your reading).
4. Book onto ‘How to read a policy series’ online sessions, and I will walk you through how to read a policy. Click here for more details.

Finally, please do not perish for lack of reading; the cost is too high.