Inform and consult your employees

Examples of good practice

A communications and consultation policy is an effective way of defining who is responsible for communications and consultation, the channels along which information passes and the way it is communicated.

A good policy typically sets out clearly the business's approach to and procedures for communication and consultation . It describes who is responsible for communication at each level and the methods used for communication. It also outlines the arrangements for consultation and for training employees and managers.

Involve trade union representatives or other employee representatives in drawing up the policy, and throughout the communications and consultation process. Also involve senior managers and get them to take the lead. Make provisions to include workers in different sites, or those working from home or in isolated areas.

Make sure that communication and consultation are systematic and regular. Frequently review the policy and be willing to modify it. Tailor your consultative arrangements to your business. Small companies tend to have more informal arrangements, but some formality may be necessary so that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. This is particularly important where consultation is a legal obligation.

Be genuine about your commitment to communication and consider employees' views before making a decision.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Why good communications are important
• Legal requirements for communications
• Consulting your employees
• Communicating and consulting - ways and means
• The art of good communication
• Examples of good practice
• The role of training
• Here's how asking employees for ideas improved our business

 

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