Best Practices in HR for Small Businesses
Running a business means wearing many hats, and HR is one of the most important—though it's often the most overlooked. Getting the basics right early can save you time, money, and stress later.
Here's what matters most when it comes to managing people properly.
Employment Contracts
Every employee must have a written contract. It should state hours, pay, notice period, holiday entitlement, and specific conditions. You don't need legal jargon—just accurate, plain language that reflects the job. When the law or your setup changes, update it.
If you're not sure your contracts are up to date or legally sound, Meridian Legal Services can review or draft them for you—quickly and with minimal fuss.
Written Policies
It's not enough to have things "understood." Key workplace policies should be written down. That includes dealing with sick leave, lateness, complaints, holidays, health and safety, and flexible working. Having policies doesn't mean being rigid—it means being consistent.
We help businesses put these policies in place in a way that fits their team, not just a template.
Starting Right
When someone joins the team, make sure they know what's expected and where to turn for help. A short welcome guide, a chat about the role, and a health and safety rundown are usually enough. You don't need a corporate onboarding process—make it clear and helpful.
We often help employers build simple but effective induction guides that cover what matters.
Managing Performance
Talk to people regularly. If someone's doing well, tell them. If something's going wrong, don't let it drag on—raise it early, privately, and respectfully. Keep notes. If things ever go further, those notes matter.
We can advise you on handling these conversations or step in when things go further than expected.
Handling Problems Properly
If you need to discipline someone or deal with a complaint, follow the process. Give people a chance to respond. Follow the ACAS Code. Even if you're frustrated or disappointed, staying calm and fair protects you and keeps things professional.
Meridian Legal Services can guide you through this, step by step, so you don't make mistakes that could cost you later.
Training
Training doesn't mean courses and certificates. It can be as simple as showing someone how to handle a task, offering feedback, or explaining the reason behind a decision. But legal basics—like health and safety or harassment policies—do need to be covered clearly.
We offer practical legal training for managers so they feel confident handling everyday issues properly.
Supporting Staff
People do their best work when they feel respected and supported. Make it okay to talk about mental health. Don't reward overwork. Respect time off. You don't need fancy well-being programmes—just fairness, flexibility, and understanding go a long way.
We can help you create a workplace culture that works for your people and your business.
Why This Matters
Some HR basics are legal requirements. Others aren't—but ignoring them can still land you in trouble. Most problems could have been avoided with a clear contract, a fair warning, or a written policy. That's why it's worth getting right.
This is where we come in. Meridian Legal Services works with small businesses to make HR straightforward and compliant so you can get on with running the business.
What We Do
Whether you need contracts, handbooks, support with a staff issue, or want to check that you're doing things right—we're here to help. We specialise in small and medium-sized businesses and know how to keep things practical, efficient, and legally sound.
No jargon. No pressure. It's just straightforward advice that works.
Let's Keep It Simple
If you've got people working for you, you've got HR responsibilities. But they don't have to be a burden. Get the essentials, treat people fairly, and ask for help.
Contact Meridian Legal Services to sort your HR out properly—before it becomes problematic.
