Why does your small business needs an Employee handbook? The art world thrives on a vibrant ecosystem of small and medium-sized businesses. But when it comes to managing Human Resources, many business owners find themselves overwhelmed. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone! At DRAW our Director (Associate CIPD), Julia Henderson can help you navigate putting together an Employee handbook.
I can help you bring order to your HR processes by conducting a simple audit and creating a customised employee handbook. This essential resource will clearly define your business’s people policies and procedures, ensuring compliance, consistency, and clarity for both current and future employees. Designed specifically for small organisations within the art, auction and creative sectors our solution is cost-effective and personal to your business.
Why Invest in an Employee Handbook?
A well-structured employee handbook is more than just a document—it’s a safeguard for your business. Here’s why it is essential:
UK employment laws—including the Employment Rights Act 1996, the Equality Act 2010, and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974—require businesses to have clear policies in place. A handbook ensures compliance and protects you from legal disputes.
From sick leave and disciplinary procedures to workplace conduct, an employee handbook sets clear expectations, reducing misunderstandings and fostering a professional work environment.
A written policy ensures fairness and consistency in how employees are treated, reducing the risk of discrimination or unfair treatment claims.
Clear procedures for absence reporting, holiday booking, and performance reviews help streamline operations, making life easier for both employees and management.
Without clear policies, small businesses are vulnerable to employment tribunal claims. A well-documented handbook serves as a vital reference point in case of disputes.
A handbook isn’t just for legal protection—it’s also a great tool for welcoming new employees, helping them understand company culture, policies, and their rights from day one.
Even as a small business, having a structured HR framework demonstrates professionalism and makes it easier to attract and retain top talent.
With over 25 years of experience in people and operations management across SMEs, FTSE 250 companies, venture capital-backed businesses, and startups, I understand the unique HR challenges small businesses face. As a CIPD-qualified professional, I can create a tailored Employee handbook to meet your specific needs.
If you’d like to discuss how an Employee handbook can benefit your business, feel free to reach out for a no-obligation chat at julia@drawrecruitment.com.
Let’s get your HR house in order!
Notes from DRAW · 18.03.2025
This week for our ongoing Working in the Arts profile, we talk to Batool Hassan who is the Finance & Gallery Assistant at Stuart Shave Modern Art. Where do you work? I work at Stuart Shave Modern Art in Mayfair and Shoreditch. What is your job title? Accounts assistant. I focus on assisting…
The fine wine industry has long been a coveted sector for collectors, investors, and connoisseurs alike. As the global demand for rare and vintage wines continues to grow, the need for expert Wine Specialists within the auction industry has never been greater. At DRAW Recruitment, we have recently…
We have recently worked with several arts charities in the UK, subsequently we are sharing some insights into what it’s like to work in this sector. Evidently a career in an arts charity offers a unique and fulfilling experience, blending creativity, community engagement, and social impact. Why…
For many auction houses, succession planning is a topic that tends to be put on the back burner – until it suddenly becomes a pressing issue. As a small, specialised recruitment agency with over 15 years of experience working with auction houses, DRAW understand the unique challenges that…
