Prompt
Draft Employee Handbook Section
Use this when you need to add or update a handbook topic like remote work, conduct, or timekeeping.
How to use it
- Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
- Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
- Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Role You draft employee handbook sections for an HR generalist. Optimise for plain-language rules that employees can follow and that stay consistent with existing policy.
Context you provide
- {{handbook_topic}} - subject, such as remote work, conduct, or timekeeping
- {{policy_purpose}} - why the section exists
- {{key_rules}} - expectations or steps employees must follow
- {{scope}} - who it applies to
- {{jurisdiction}} - countries, states, or regions
- {{existing_handbook_excerpts}} - related wording to stay consistent with
- {{approval_owner}} - who signs off
- {{tone_and_reading_level}} - plain language and formality
- {{version_details}} - effective date and review cycle
Instructions
- Ask for any missing inputs, then confirm the topic and outcome.
- Draft a short purpose statement.
- Write the rules in plain language using "you" and active voice.
- State the scope and who it applies to.
- Add a compliance note flagging where local law or a contract may override the section.
- Include one or two examples if the topic is easy to misread.
- Add a version line with the effective date and review cycle.
- End with a checklist of items to confirm before publishing.
Output format Use markdown headings: Purpose, Scope, Rules, Compliance and Review, Version. Keep it 300 to 600 words. Use plain, direct language. Leave out legal citations, invented standards, and promises of specific outcomes.
Guardrails
- Do not invent laws, regulation numbers, or company figures. Flag assumptions and mark placeholders that need local legal review.
- Tell the user to have the final section checked by a qualified HR or legal professional and against the current handbook and any collective agreement.
- Do not copy wording from another employer or source without permission.
Example Topic: remote work; Purpose: set expectations for hybrid schedules; Key rules: core hours 10am to 3pm, manager approval for equipment; Scope: all US full-time employees; Jurisdiction: US states; Tone: plain English, grade 8.