How Can I Create Effective HR Policies for Our Growing Startup Team?

sharon mascarenhas
Initial HR Policies for a Growing Startup

I work for a startup software company where the employees do not have any HR policies. Since there are only 25 employees working (all software engineers), the number is expected to grow within two months. What should be the initial level of policies I can start as an HR? Please suggest or share some ideas that would be effective for the employees.

Regards,
Sharon
Ronald-deSaran
You have a task cut out for yourself. HR policies are a vast area to be covered. Think about the immediate requirements; let us take a walk down this path.

Recruitment Policies

You need recruitment policies, including the offer letter and appointment letter with all the clauses to safeguard the company. It should not be slanted in favor of the company; otherwise, it will not hold out in court. If you have a sample, send it to me, and I can edit it. The complete recruitment process needs to be defined.

Resignations and Separation Policy

This is very important, and all clauses must be covered to safeguard the company's interests.

General HR Policies

These include office timings, the number of days of work per week, the number of leaves permitted, along with the types of leave the company will provide. Consider compensatory off if employees work on weekends and/or holidays.

Compensation

This should include salary bands and grades with start and end levels. Any other compensation that will be part of the package, the CTC breakup into various components such as Basic, HRA, Medical, Variable—what percentage of CTC will this comprise.

Dress Code

If any, the company wishes to enforce.

Travel Policy

Inter-city and intra-city, define the modes of travel for each grade/band as well as the limits of hotel expenses allowed.

Performance Appraisal System

Explain how it will work and the frequency. Define each level in the system such as 1 - Exceptional, 2 - Exceeds Expectations, 3 - Meets Expectation, 4 - Below Par Needs Improvement. Define the promotion policy—the minimum number of appraisal cycles required for promotion.

Get cracking on this and revert back if you need any specific help on any of these.

Regards
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