The 2019-2022 period has brought new trends that have disrupted traditional standards in several fields. Events with global repercussions in recent years have directly affected not only the work situation, but also the personal situation of millions of people around the world.
The pandemic has changed the traditional view of work, introducing new concepts that are here to stay. As a company, it is very important that corporate policies reflect this new situation and protect both employees and the company itself.
In this post we will talk about 5 policies to keep your startup up to date with the trends of 2022.
Home Working Policy
Also know as: Remote Working Policy
Remote working is here to stay. All companies have embraced this trend, adapting to their specific situation. Offering the flexibility of home working to your employees can offer a number of benefits to both parties, increasing morale, improving staff retention and even saving on office space and recruitment.
However, a policy to regulate this situation is becoming increasingly necessary. This policy should operates on the principle that any request to work from home will only be approved if it is mutually beneficial.
This policy should be on the same page as other similar policies, such as the flexible working policy, to ensure uniformity of criteria.
Learn more about the Home Working policy here
VPN (Virtual Private Network) Policy
The growth of remote working has led to an increase in potentially dangerous situations online. The concept of VPN was practically unknown a few years ago, and today it has become a must for many companies and workers.
VPNs guarantee private and secure internet Access, providing an extra level of security to your Company and employees. The Virtual Private Network Policy should provide guidance on how VPN connections can be made and how that access should be controlled.
Learn more about the VPN policy here
Mobile Device Policy (BYOD)
Also known as: Bring Your Own Device Policy
The line between personal and professional environments is becoming increasingly thinner. The use of personal devices in the professional environment and vice versa is becoming more frequent.
The mobile phone policy is used to communicate acceptable use specific to portable devices, such as mobile phones. The use of mobile devices can present a security and compliance risk to companies, it is therefore prudent to put in place a specific policy that goes into further detail than the Acceptable Use policy that provides broader guidance on the appropriate use of business and personal equipment.
Employees are very likely to use personal mobile phones during working hours, as a result, most firms allow a reasonable level of use, but being consistent in defining and enforcing rules is recommended to ensure that use does not become excessive.
Learn more about the Mobile Device policy here
Internet and Social Media Policy
Social networks are the meeting point between company, audience and workers, making them a very delicate place for the image and reputation of the brand. Any communication by a member of the staff whether on behalf of the Company or in a personal capacity can significantly impact the Company’s reputation.
The Internet and Social Media Policy aims to ensure that all staff are aware of their responsibilities and obligations with regard to using the internet and social media. The policy outlines the Company’s position on the use of social media and networking sites, and all types of electronic message/blogging by staff whilst at work, and/or representing the Company.
Learn more about the Internet and Social Media policy here
Unlimited Holiday Policy
The progressive increase in labor flexibility has directly affected holidays management. Even though an Unlimited Holiday policy is still the exception rather than the norm, this trend keeps growing, and it is particularly prevalent in SaaS companies.
This flexibility may attract highly qualified candidates who require the flexibility of an unlimited holiday policy, and it is being tested as a way to encourage a more efficient use of work time.
However, this flexibility may have potential drawbacks, since it will not work for every type of worker and/or company. Workers whose jobs require on-site presence could be an example of this.
In any case, it is necessary for the company to be clear about the characteristics and limitations of this practice, through an Unlimited Holiday Policy.
Learn more about the Unlimited Holiday policy here
Corporate policies must always be up to date, especially in today’s dynamic and changing environment. New trends, with their advantages, disadvantages and risks for the company and workers continue to emerge, in addition to legal requirements.
Creating new policies, updating your current ones, have them signed by the executives, sharing them with your employees… all the process is time consuming and takes time from your real core business. With Adoptech, you can manage more than 50 policies in the same platform, sign and share them in seconds, track staff approval and get automated updates to make the whole process more efficient. Start for free here or chat with our team if you have any questions.
