HR Resources
Why Are Job Descriptions Important? (PDF)
Job descriptions seem like another one of those paperwork things that businesses “should” have but in a small company, where the boss is setting the tasks and doing the hiring, there is no need for writing it down, right? You don’t need job descriptions – as long as you never have a problem with an employee. Read more…
Using Your Employee Manual (PDF)
So you have decided to develop an employee manual, or maybe you even have one already. Now what? Can’t you just stick it on a shelf somewhere in case you end up in a lawsuit someday? Well, you can. But it is a waste of money to do that, and legally you might be better off not having it at all. Better to use it to help you manage your employees. Read more…
Tailoring an internet Employee Manual (PDF)
Internet templates for employee manuals and other documents are cheap and easy – but they may need some adjustments to work for your business. Manuals written in other states, for large companies, or poorly drafted all need adjustments to work for a Montana small business. Read more…
Manufacturer Resources
Corrective Action and Preventive Action (PDF)
ISO 9000 and other quality management systems require a documented procedure for dealing with corrective actions and preventive actions. ISO allows them to be dealt with by the same (CPAR) system, but they are different mind sets.Corrective actions resolve existing problems, while preventive actions prevent future problems. Read more…
Small Business Resources
Document and Pain Points (PDF)
Some people seem to think that generating paper is a goal in itself, but the only reason to write documents is to help you manage your business better. If it doesn’t help, you won’t use it and it will gather dust. Rather than drafting documents because you “should” have them, focus on resolving your pain points; identifying them will tell you what documents you need. Read more…
Mission Statements (PDF)
Every company is expected to have a mission statement, but there is little agreement on what a good one looks like. Some people think the mission statement should be short and easy to remember, others think it should include all the company’s major goals, from how it treats its employees to how sustainable it will be. Read more…
Safety Plan Basics (PDF)
One of the little-known requirements for Montana businesses is a safety plan. The Montana Safety Culture Act requires all employers, even with only one part-time employee, to have a safety plan. So far, the state is educating and encouraging rather than punishing companies without them, and there are plenty of good resources to help you develop a written plan. Read more…