In my role within HR Solutions at OIA, I often help agencies navigate an employee relations issue they are experiencing for the first time. These situations include attendance issues, maternity leave, and other long-term absences. More often than not, the agency does not have an existing policy in their handbook and in some cases do not have an employee handbook at all. 

The likelihood of employee relations issues increases as agencies grow from having just a few family members, or just a few long-tenured employees. Inconsistent handling of performance, tardiness and attendance, and leaves of absence are the biggest sources of legal risk.   

A well-crafted employee handbook is essential for:  

• Legal protection: Helps defend against claims of unfair treatment or wrongful termination by documenting policies and expectations. 

• Clear communication: Ensures employees understand their rights, responsibilities, and benefits. 

• Cultural foundation: Reinforces company values, mission, and professional standards. 

• Operational consistency: Promotes uniformity in how policies are applied across the team. 

HR Advisory Services at OIA is here to help agencies understand employment laws, navigate employee relations challenges, and establish good HR policies and practices. OIA members can download the handbook template and customize it as needed. If you’d like the resource in a different format, please contact our team below. 

New sample policies within this edition include: 

• Artificial Intelligence
• Maternity and Parental leave 
• Emergency Leave 
• Cell Phone Use 
• Cyber Security 
• Personal Appearance & Dress Code 

Legal Disclaimer: It is important not to adopt a sample policy word for word. Agencies should review the language and update the policy to fit their leadership philosophy and culture. HR Advisory Services does not provide legal advice and does not replace the guidance of an employment attorney. Agencies should always have their handbooks and changes reviewed with an attorney for legal compliance and risk prior to implementation. 

Contact Information
Please don’t hesitate to contact me at brian@ohioinsuranceagents.com or (614) 552-3048 if you have any questions about this new resource. Thank you for your continued membership with OIA. 

About the Author

Brian Lawrence is the Sr. Director of Agency Talent Development for Ohio Insurance Agents. He is responsible for providing HR support and resources for the membership. His HR career spans 25 years across Insurance, Financial Services, Healthcare, and Association Management.

Much of his experience includes 20 years at Nationwide, where he spent seven years as an HR Director/HR Business Partner providing strategic support to executive leadership teams across P&C, Commercial and Non-Standard Customer Service Operations, Life Insurance and Annuity Operations, & Nationwide Pet Insurance.