The One HR Step to Take Before You Hire Your First Employee

When you’re just starting your business, it’s easy to think HR is something you’ll deal with later—once you have more employees, more revenue, or more time. But the truth is, HR begins the moment you bring someone else into your business, even if it’s just a part-time contractor or your first assistant.

The good news? You don’t need to start with a 50-page handbook. The very first step is simple: write down how you want work to get done.

What Is a “Ways We Work” Document?

A “Ways We Work” document is a one-page guide that outlines the basics of how you and anyone who works with you will approach work. Think of it as your starter handbook. It doesn’t have to be formal or complicated—it just needs to be clear.

This document sets expectations, reduces confusion, and creates consistency as you grow.

• Clarity: People know what’s expected of them from the start.

• Consistency: Everyone follows the same guidelines, whether it’s one employee or ten.

• Culture: You’re defining the kind of workplace you want to build.

• Protection: Written expectations help you avoid misunderstandings and potential disputes.

What to Include in Your One-Page Guide

Here are five sections you can cover in your “Ways We Work” document:

1. Work Hours and Availability

   • When are people expected to work or be available?

   • Are there core hours for meetings or client work?

2. Communication

   • How do you prefer to communicate (email, Slack, text)?

   • What’s the expected response time?

3. Time Off and Flexibility

   • How do people request time off?

   • Are there holidays or company closures to be aware of?

4. Work Standards

   • What does “a job well done” look like in your business?

   • Are there specific quality, customer service, or turnaround standards?

5. Values and Culture

   • What matters most to you as a leader?

   • How should people treat clients, each other, and their work?

How to Create It

• Start simple: bullet points are fine.

• Use plain language—write it the way you’d say it.

• Review it with your first hire, and update as you grow.

• Keep it to one page—this is a foundation, not a finished handbook.

Example Starter “Ways We Work” Statement

We work Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm EST. Communication is by email, and I’ll respond within 24 hours. If you need time off, email me at least a week in advance. Projects should be delivered by the agreed deadline with a quick progress update mid-way. We value respect, honesty, and a team-first approach in everything we do.

Your “Ways We Work” document is a small step with a big impact. It gives you structure without the overwhelm of a full HR system. Most importantly, it helps you grow with intention—building a workplace where clarity and trust come first.