Continuously updated written electronic policies will reduce risk and liability. They also serve to educate employees about the unintentional consequences of seemingly innocent habits. The following checklist may be used as a starting point to establish electronic communication policies in a growing firm or in a new virtual partnership. New hires usually are expected to sign an agreement. Managers must secure consultants' signatures.
Some employment laws vary by state.
Internet Policy Internet access is provided specifically for business purposes, i.e., education and work-related research Observe copyright laws when using material from the Internet Customer and client lists and data on individuals may not be copied or used in any manner not consistent with the business purpose of the firm 3. Email Policies Email administrators often send a welcoming message to new employees. A description of mailbox limits, message and attachment size limits, time length for backup and storage of sent and deleted items, and a reference to the electronic communications policy. A caution against sending all-employee email. In firms with more than a dozen people, the practice can spread viruses and overload servers.