Key policies

In the field of world policy I would dedicate this Nation to the policy of the good neighbour. Franklin D. Roosevelt

Policies give overall guidance to managers, employees and external parties.  Whereas core values operate at an ethical, moral and strategic level; policies, whilst conforming to the core values, operate at a practical, pragmatic and tactical level.

Publicize them:  The whole point of having policies is to give direction in decision making on a day-to-day basis and to obviate the need to continually obtain clarification from superiors. The policies under which people work should be documented and enforced. Everyone should adhere to them and an explanation given for every exception – otherwise why bother having them?      Some policies, such as reporting theft to the police, may be mandatory. Others - paying suppliers within 30 days - may be called policies, but could be just targets. Some examples follow:

Ashley Park Residents Assoc: Only approving new houses built in a style compatible with neighbouring properties.

Halifax plc: Giving direct financial support to community organizations and projects.

UK Government: Not to negotiate with hostage takers.

Littlewoods plc:  Hiring staff in their 50s (who have high levels of commitment and well-developed life-skills).

Overheard: (Two passengers at an airport) “Our policy is not to pay small suppliers until we are sued”.

Charters: Many organizations include core values and key policies in a ‘Charter’. These range from the pompous and overbearing tomes of some businesses and government departments to a straightforward, single sheet Parents' Charter often produced by small schools and nurseries. >>>