The Watercooler

5 Steps to Make Sure New Policies Get Implemented Not Disregarded

You’ve worked hard to create a new workplace policy that will benefit your company greatly.

You deserve a pat on the back! But your work isn’t done.

Once that beautiful new policy is created, you need to ensure that it’s actually implemented – and not ignored. After all, even the most eloquent policy is nothing more than a collection of words if it’s not properly rolled out, executed and enforced.

Use these steps to take your policy from a “nice idea” to an “effective management tool”:

Communicate your policy.
To everyone! Unless every employee is on the same page, you can’t expect a policy to achieve the desired result. Adapt your communication strategy to meet the needs of different types of recipients:

  • Provide a plain-English summary of the policy anyone within your organization could understand.
  • When appropriate, use pictures, statistics or presentations to capture attention and cement understanding.
  • Prepare customized documentation, when necessary, for those directly impacted by your new policy (i.e., anyone who must enforce or follow the policy).

Secure buy-in.
Make it clear why the new policy matters. Present the change in a positive light whenever possible, offering evidence and examples to support your position. And, if the policy is likely to be unpopular, explain the business reasons behind the change – as well as the consequences of non-compliance.

Create a sense of urgency.
Consider:
 

  • How long do you have before you need 100% compliance?
  • What roadblocks must be removed to effectively roll out the policy?
  • What will happen if the policy isn’t consistently followed and enforced?

Obtain written acknowledgement.
Make sure each employee fully understands, accepts and plans to comply with the new policy by obtaining written acknowledgement. At a minimum, the document should include:

  • a detailed overview of the policy;
  • a review of employees’ responsibilities under the new policy;
  • consequences for non-compliance and/or any corrective actions which will be taken;
  • an understanding, acknowledgement and willingness to comply statement;
  • the employee’s signature, printed name and date.


Gauge effectiveness.
Once you implement the new policy, be sure that it’s achieving its purpose (and not creating undesired or unintentional consequences):
 

  • Create timelines and goals for rollout.
  • Create ways to measure how consistently the new policy is implemented.
  • Provide a way for employees to communicate concerns or problems.
  • Review results in appropriate meetings, discuss successes and issues, and gather management feedback.

Implement. Achieve. Thrive with PrideStaff.
Whether you’re looking to grow your business, increase compliance, implement departmental changes or enhance profitability, PrideStaff can help you achieve your goals.  Contact your local PrideStaff office today to learn more about our strategic staffing solutions.