FAQS

What is a handbook?

A handbook is a written document that describes the policies, procedures, and overall expectations of a program or a job.  It is meant to serve as a reference and answer frequently asked questions.  A handbook is meant to provide the groundwork for success.

A handbook is not meant to replace important human interaction, nor is it a substitute for best practices.  It is meant to provide general information and ensure everyone is on the same page.

A handbook is not just a singular document - it is much more than that.

What should be included in a handbook?

While handbooks can vary from purpose to purpose, here is a general outline of what should be included in a handbook:

• Cover page
• Table of contents:  It is important to include a table of contents so the reader knows where to look for pertinent information.
• Welcoming statement: This statement sets the tone for the entire handbook.  It should be positive and upbeat.
• Introduction to the handbook:  What is the history behind the handbook?  Are you creating it for your company?  Are you creating it for a project?  Is it a training handbook?  Providing the history can help instill a sense of pride in the reader.  If you are creating it for a company or a project, be sure to include the mission statement.  It can help your reader to understand not only your purpose, but their purpose as well. 
• Handbook purpose:  Clearly define that the reader must read the handbook in its entirety and ensure to follow the guidelines when they complete their work.  It can also be a legal buffer for you to include that the handbook is not a contract and can change at any time, for any reason, and without warning.  It helps cover you in the case of any legal trouble.
• Handbook content:  Here is where you provide the information you are trying to impart through the handbook.  If you are conducting a training, you will input the training content here.  If you are including policies and procedures, explain the policies and procedures the reader must follow.  For employee handbooks, you would include information regarding human resources, hiring practices, recruitment practices, internal application processes, referral programs/bonuses, new employee information, hours, pay policies, etc.
• Summary or review:  This is a great place to provide a brief summary of the information covered in the handbook to really drive home the purpose to your reader.
• Handbook acknowledgement form:  It is important to include this form as it can prevent any challenges later with claims of being unaware of important policies and procedures.
• Appendices:  You may need to include appendices to the handbook for further information for the reader.

What should I keep in mind when creating a handbook?

Consistency is key when it comes to handbooks.  It is important to follow the policies outlined in the handbook.  Inconsistency (i.e. the handbook says one thing and people do another) can lead to a lack of trust and even open you up for legal trouble down the road.

Be concise.  While it is important to outline specific policies in the handbook, there are separate policy and procedure documents to provide every detail regarding the ins and outs of the policies and procedures.  The handbook is just meant to provide an introduction and general understanding. 

How do I create a handbook?

You can use Microsoft Word to create your handbook; however, keep in mind your handbook is more than just a Word document.

While there is no handbook template in Word, there are templates for cover pages, table of contents, and booklets.

References

Guerin, L., & DelPo, A. (2017). Create your own employee handbook: A legal & practical guide for employers. https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=ip,shib&db=nlebk&AN=1473269&site=eds-live&custid=s9076023&ebv=EB&ppid=pp_C