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Writing a Job orientation Handbook.

You aced the interview. You got the phone call to tell you "You're hired!" You've been in and signed all those papers at Personnel. Odd thing though. No one gave you a company handbook. They don't have one. This can mean several different things.

It could be that they are a well established company which started out small and grew over time. Because of these humble beginnings, employees were originally the friends or family of the owner.There was no need to ask about the employee benefit package when the best they could hope for was free beer on Fridays! But now you've joined this company where most of the old-timers have been involved in the decision-making since early on. They know.You don't. And that puts you at a disadvantage.

Another reason for no handbook being available could be more nefarious.Perhaps the administration likes to keep employees on their toes by not telling them the rules of the game. If this is the case, you might want to re-open your job search-.

When you express your disappointment at not having a handbook available,you're cheerfully advised, "If you have any questions, just ask!" However, you might feel uncomfortable asking your new boss some questions that you find pressing. Your co-workers would know the answers, but you can't go around asking co-workers for details about how to call in sick on your first day! You won't be likely to ask about bonuses and promotions when you're the new guy, stumbling around making newbie mistakes at every turn. How will you find out about the company policy on giving notice and quitting, without running the risk of seeing your job posted in the lunchroom the following day?

Every company comprised of more than one person should have a company handbook. This booklet will be the new employee's best friend until he learns the ropes .And if he stays with the company for a while, he'll return to the handbook again and again. He'll read different sections as they become pertinent to him. He'll develop confidence in the company's efforts to provide fairly for its employees. He'll feel free to ask for clarification where the book is unclear. His copy of the handbook should be showing signs of wear by the time the updated version comes out. And just what are the essential contents of a company handbook?

What Should be in a Company Handbook?

1. The handbook should welcome the new employee to the company. It might give a brief history of company development.

2. A Mission Statement

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