Short Answer: Every employer should maintain accurate, organized, and secure employment records.
Why It Matters: Personnel files typically include employment agreements, offer letters, job descriptions, policy acknowledgments, performance evaluations, disciplinary records, compensation changes, and training documentation. Certain records, such as I-9Forms, medical information, and accommodation records, should generally be maintained separately. Record retention requirements vary by document type and applicable law, so businesses should understand their legal obligations.
Common Mistakes: Keeping incomplete or inconsistent files; storing sensitive information together with general personnel records; relying on memory instead of documentation; discarding records too soon.
Michelle's Bottom Line: Good record keeping supports sound business decisions, demonstrates consistency, and can be invaluable if employment issues arise.
