Society For Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional Practice Exam

An employee handbook helps to:

1. Establish expectations

2. Provide legal details on employment

3. Avoid employer liability

4. Prepare a philosophy for work

The correct answer is: Establish expectations

An employee handbook serves as a crucial tool for establishing expectations within an organization. It outlines the policies, procedures, and behavioral standards that employees are expected to follow, providing them with a clear understanding of what is required in their roles. This foundational document helps align employee actions with the organization's values and objectives, effectively communicating what the employer considers acceptable conduct, performance benchmarks, and the resources available to employees for support. Clear expectations can enhance workplace culture, reduce misunderstandings, and promote accountability, leading to a more productive work environment. While other options cover important aspects of an employee handbook, such as legalities, liability, and company philosophy, the primary function of the handbook is rooted in establishing clear expectations for employees, ensuring they know their responsibilities and the standards to which they are held. This creates a framework for consistency in behavior, performance assessments, and organizational processes.