Simply having workplace policies is not enough! Managers must consistently enforce the policies and procedures, or they quite literally aren’t worth the paper they are printed on.
An employee’s right to be treated fairly is upheld by common law and the Employment Standards legislation. It is particularly important in businesses where family members and/or close friends run the company or organization. Management must treat all employees in the same manner, following the workplace policies, whether the employee is related or not. Not only does this remove the perception of favouritism, but also sends the message that the workplace stands by it’s messaging.
All workplaces should have a progressive discipline policy in place to deal with infractions, and follow each step consistently. Connecting your discipline policy to your other policies dealing with Attendance Management, Progressive Discipline, Dishonesty and Theft, Social Media, Work Performance Standards and On-the-Job Behaviour can save thousands of dollars in unjust or wrongful dismissal costs.
A lot of research has been done to show that consistent enforcement of workplace policies leads to a happier work culture, which in turn leads to increases in productivity and innovation.
Call us today for help with your workplace policies!
