What Is a Policy?
A policy is a system of principles, rules, and guidelines in order to achieve long-term goals. Policies are implemented as a protocol or procedure not only for companies but also for the various government agencies. Policies are essential since it addresses relevant issues such as what employee behavior is unacceptable. Research says that a simple policy is effective if it achieves the objectives and attracts no criticisms from others. Although a policy does not give a 100 percent prevention of problems, writing a company policy is a great and effective way of providing safety and fair working environment to the members and employees of the organization.
How to Write a Policy
The whole process of policy-making is rather complex. Almost all policymakers face difficulties and obstacles while deducing and developing its content. Follow these simple steps listed below and understand why they are included in the workplace policy. These steps are not only applicable to a company policy but also to the insurance policy, policy loan, policy proof of interest, and education policy.
1. Write a Purpose Statement and Date Effective
The purpose of the statement is an introductory statement that outlines and summarizes the reasons for the issuance of the government, company, or school policy. It also provides the desired objectives or goals that the policy aims to accomplish. Policies, whether it be insurance, health, management, public, or expense policies, should always include the date in which the policy will be put into action.
2. Note Applicability and Scope
This part of the policy describes who the policy will affect and what actions are impacted by the policy. The applicability and scope can specifically exclude or include certain people, organizations, or behavior from the policy requirements. This section of the policy will focus on the desired targets and avoid unintended consequences. It often involves workplace safety practices, suitable dress code, use of computers and the Internet, harassment, overtime policy.
3. Address Policy Statements and Responsibilities
The policy statements should impose detailed rules, requirements, and behavior expected from the employees or members of the organization. Policy statements are extremely varied depending on the organization and intention and can take any form. Many policies will require the implementation of some functions or actions. The responsibilities section will announce which parties or organizations are accountable for carrying out the policy statements. Responsibilities might include the identification of any relevant supervision or governance structures.
4. State the Background
The background, as the name implies, provides the history and purpose that led to the creation of the policy, as well as the statement of reasons. The background is quite valuable in the evaluation or the use in ambiguous circumstances of the policy statement.
5. Define Terms
The definition of terms is for the purpose of providing clear and unambiguous definitions of the terms and ideas found in the policy statement. This section of the policy ensures that all the employees and members of the organization understood the information and concepts. This part of the policy is optional though.