Policies and procedures must match the statements in your handbook . Inconsistencies serve only to anger staff and frustrate attorneys .
Remember promises can be contracts . If you promise a staff member that they will become a “ permanent employee ” after completing a probationary / introductory period , you may be unknowingly contracting to keep them on forever . Staff members with contracts are no longer of at-will status . Remember to state that the staff handbook isn ’ t a contract .
Stay flexible . Practices can back themselves into a corner if they spell out every detail in a handbook . It ’ s better for dentists to stay flexible so they can deal with any unforeseen circumstances .
Get an expert to review . Any item in your handbook that conflicts with state law is invalid . Rules that go beyond business necessity , and federal and state legal mandates , may violate other laws . Have the proper expert review your handbook for any such discrepancies . A trusted HR specialist is your greatest resource here .
Update your information . Old handbook information can lead to confusion , discontent and litigation . Always keep your handbook up-to-date .
Make rules that work . Any rules that dentists won ’ t enforce aren ’ t worth the paper they ’ re printed on . Such rules will hinder their credibility .
Compliance doesn ’ t mean putting a generic manual on the shelf and believing you have met your obligation !
Include disclaimers throughout your handbook such as :
All staff are employed at-will .
No one ’ s employment is for any specific length of time .
Either the staff member or the dentist has the right to terminate the relationship at any time .
Nothing in the handbook should be construed as a contract or a guarantee of future employment .
The current handbook supersedes all previous versions .
It may be time to update your staff handbook . If so , our HR department has the knowledge and dental experience to help you do so confidently .
Dr . Richard V . Lyschik ’ s transition , management and coaching experiences go beyond the traditional single general dental practice sale . His Dental Office Network Team has helped thousands of dentists acquire , expand , merge multiple practices , build from the ground up , as well as guided older , disabled and “ burned out ” dentists sell with dignity . The Practice Rescue Department has resurrected practices in demise , saving them from imminent disaster . Over 50 % of dentists return 2-3 years later to invest in another dental practice ! Dr . Lyschik has broken numerous industry records as the highest producer in the country ! Just ask any major lender – they all know him ! To discuss your transition plans with a seasoned fellow dentist who “ speaks your language ” and a recognized Premier Transition Specialist , or to schedule your free appraisal , contact Dr . Lyschik by email at info @ officenetworkusa . com or call his office at ( 214 ) 893-0410 .
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