What is an employment contract and why do you need one?
An employment contract sets the terms of the employment relationship between you and your staff. Employees see contracts as a way to safeguard their rights. For employers like yourself, they are tools to set expectations and protect your business.
Knowing what to include in an employment contract is critical. And getting any part of it wrong leaves you open to a huge list of employee claims. This is where Peninsula can help. Our experts are here 24/7. We’ll tailor contracts according to the needs of your business and ensure you’re protected.
How work contracts protect your business
Employment contracts do a lot of the heavy lifting to protect your business. While there are countless reasons to use them, there are three reasons that every employer should keep top of mind.
- They ensure your employees are aware of their obligations and agree to work under the terms you set out.
- They secure your business clientele and intellectual property.
- Contracts are easier to prove than a verbal agreement in cases of doubt or if contested.
Contracts are heavily scrutinized, and any ambiguity is interpreted in the worker’s favour.
Our experts can tailor contracts to fulfill the specific needs of your business and industry. We’ll help identify any potential issues with the wording of your policies and ensure you are compliant with legislation.
Minimum requirements for a job contract
Without a contract in place, common law sets the floor for what you have to offer your staff. These rights cannot be waived by any contract. It is critical employers have tailored contracts meeting provincial standards.
Doing so guarantees your business is compliant and your contracts are valid.
Ensure your contract includes:
- Trial and notice periods.
- Termination clauses.
- Hours of work.
- Job responsibilities.
- Salary, bonus, benefits.
- Privacy and confidentiality policies.
- Layoff clauses.
- Termination clauses and policy.
Wondering what other business owners are saying about Peninsula?
Gingerbread Preschool & Daycare
Dr. William Rodriguez & Associates
Suser Lee Restaurant Group
01Enjoy access to unlimited 24/7 advice
Whenever you run into an HR or H&S issue, our experts can help.
02Keep your contracts & documents up to date
Keep your business compliant with every legislative change.
03An extension of your small business
Find out what it’s like to have your own highly trained HR department.
Frequently asked questions about employment contracts in Canada
01
What are the 3 types of employment contracts?
- Indefinite-term.
- Fixed-term.
- Project-based.
02
Can you employ someone without a job contract
Yes, you can. Your workers will still be entitled to the minimum standards set out in your province.
03
Can you change or update an employment contract?
Yes, you can. Legislation, roles, and duties often change meaning you must also update your contracts.
04
Are contracts necessary?
Yes, they are. Employment contracts protect your business and ensure you are staying compliant.
05
What provinces do you operate in?
Peninsula works with business owners in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.
Learn the best practices for employment contracts with our free Peninsula Employer Guide
Do you need help tailoring watertight employment contracts?
Job contracts are extremely useful tools. They not only protect your business but also minimize employment-related liabilities.
Our team works to understand your specific needs and tailor a contract to your industry. And not just for your full-time staff. We’ll tailor contracts for your part-time, seasonal, and remote workers.
Not only will leaving all this paperwork to Peninsula’s experts help you protect your business and save time, but we’re also a more cost-effective solution. Getting simple contracts drafted can cost between $1,200 to $2,000.
When you need to hire new staff, spend your time training them. Not on the paperwork. Let us handle that for you.
24/7 small business support that just clicks
With ever-changing employment legislation, it can be confusing as a small business owner to keep up. Peninsula makes sure you’re compliant and protected.
Tailored employment contracts and handbooks
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