As your business grows, your HR documentation should grow with it. Out-of-date contracts, policies and processes create risk and can lead to issues when you least expect them. 

Here’s what every SME should review once a year. 

1. Employment Contracts 

Ask yourself: 

  • Do they reflect current salary and benefits? 
  • Have working hours or hybrid arrangements changed? 
  • Are they still legally compliant? 

Contracts become outdated faster than you think, especially as laws and practices evolve. Contract updates are inevitable and essential.

2. Policies and Handbook 

Check that your policies match how your business actually operates. Common updates include: 

  • Hybrid/remote working 
  • Sickness and absence 
  • Equality and diversity 
  • Data protection 

If your handbook still reflects a pre-growth business, it’s time for a refresh. 

3. Onboarding and Leaver Processes 

Growing businesses often realise: 

  • New starters aren’t getting consistent inductions 
  • Leavers’ documents or access aren’t handled correctly 
  • Holiday and absence records fall behind 

A quick review can prevent mistakes and improve employee experience. 

4. Your HR Tracker 

If you’re using spreadsheets for holidays, absences or training, make sure they’re: 

  • Up to date 
  • Legible 
  • Used consistently 

A simple HR tracker (included in HR Confidence) reduces admin headaches.  

Want a complete HR documentation audit? 

Our HR Confidence package includes: 

  • Full HR documentation review 
  • Updated contracts & policies 
  • Onboarding and leaver process review 
  • HR tracker template 
  • 1-hour follow-up consultation 

Perfect for SMEs with 5–20 employees who want reassurance and readiness for growth. 

Explore HR Confidence 

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In this blog, we share our five-point plan for an effective skills gap analysis.

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In this blog, we look at why your team is important, and some ideas for showing them how much you value them.

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