Employing your first member of staff is an exciting step for a new and growing business. So much energy is invested in finding the right member of your team that documenting the new relationship can fall to the bottom of your long to-do list.
Getting things right on paper is just as important as getting the chemistry right with your new team. Basic terms and conditions must, by law, be issued on day 1 of any new employment. Putting an effective contract in place should make things clearer for both parties and get you both off on the right foot. A good contract forms the basis of a relationship where both parties know where they stand and should minimise the risk of misunderstandings about essential matters such as pay, holidays and sick leave.
Emma Reid an employment solicitor and co-founder of specialist employment law firm Ergo Law outlines the key points on employment contracts for new employers: