How to Write Company Policies That Actually Get Followed

Most company policies sit in a drawer and are never read. This guide shows you how to write policies that protect your business, are actually understood by your team, and get enforced consistently.

Why Policies Matter for Your Business

Good policies:

  • Protect you from legal liability (wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment)
  • Create consistency — every manager handles situations the same way
  • Set clear expectations — employees know what is expected
  • Reduce conflict — problems are handled using documented procedures
  • Attract better staff — employees want to know the rules upfront

10 Essential Policies Every Business Needs

  1. 1. Code of Conduct — how staff must behave at work
  2. 2. Anti-Discrimination & Harassment — creating a safe workplace
  3. 3. Confidentiality & Data Protection — protecting sensitive information
  4. 4. Social Media Policy — what staff can post online
  5. 5. Health & Safety Policy — workplace safety obligations
  6. 6. Attendance & Time Off — leave, lateness, absences
  7. 7. Performance Management — feedback, reviews, discipline
  8. 8. Technology Use — email, internet, device policies
  9. 9. Whistleblower Policy — reporting misconduct safely
  10. 10. Recruitment & Promotion — fair hiring practices

How to Write a Policy (5-Step Process)

Follow these steps to create policies that protect your business. Or, use AI-powered policy writing software to automate the process and generate policies in minutes.

  1. 1

    Start with the Purpose

    Why does this policy exist? What problem does it solve?

  2. 2

    Define the Scope

    Who does this policy apply to? Everyone or specific teams?

  3. 3

    Write Clear Procedures

    Step-by-step instructions. Simple language. Real examples.

  4. 4

    Outline Consequences

    What happens if the policy is broken?

  5. 5

    Set Review Date

    When will you review and update this policy? (Annually is standard)

Generate Your Company Policies in Minutes

Policy Writer creates customized policies for your business. No legal jargon. Clear, enforceable procedures. Try free for 14 days.

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