An offer of employment can and most often is made verbally, but should be followed up with a written offer or agreement. While it’s not legally necessary to formalize an agreement between an employer and employee, there are many advantageous to having a written agreement in place. By providing written employment terms – including details of compensation, position and status the funeral home is creating a legal document that establishes a mutual understanding and when signed can prove valuable if disputes occur.
A Offer of Employment Letter – Sample is provided in Tools and Resources of this section. This sample outlines the terms and conditions of employment.
An Employment Agreement – Sample is also provided in Tools and Resources in this section. This sample agreement provides wording for relocation and educational assistance for employees in the Apprenticeship program. The agreement requires sign-off by the employee.
The samples provided will require customization to reflect the specific details of the terms of employment. As this is a legal document it is advisable to seek legal counsel on the wording used.
Things to Keep in Mind when Documenting the Job Offer
- Include fundamental information such as compensation, benefits, waiting period for benefits, job title, hire date and other conditions of employment.
- Do not promise raises, bonuses, or other business perks if these are not guaranteed. In most cases these items are contingent upon certain criteria being met, and/or subject to periodic review and change. Where applicable refer to established policy or program guidelines using wording such as “You will be eligible to participate in the management bonus program as outlined in the attached policy which is subject to periodic review and change.”
- If the funeral home will reimburse or provide funds for moving expenses, include that information in the offer letter and make the language precise.
- It is advisable to outline terms of notice period in case of termination. These must be in compliance with employment regulations however outlining the terms of notice in the job offer may limit employer liability for severance as established under current common-law.
- The candidate should be allowed adequate time to review the document before signing. This will reduce the likelihood or at least the efficacy of a claim that they did not understand the terms and conditions.
- Be prepared to answer questions about the offer letter and provide information on who to direct questions to in the offer letter.
Tools and Resources
Sample Offer Letter
Offer of Employment Letter – Sample
- Outlines common terms and conditions often covered in the employment letter
In addition to common terms and conditions included in the offer letter, this sample includes:
- Sample wording for relocation assistance
- Sample wording for educational assistance (Apprenticeship Program)
- Section for sign-off by the employee
Education Assistance Repayment Agreement – Sample
- Stand alone agreement which outlines payment and repayment requirement for educational assistance of fees, books and supplies for Apprenticeship program.
Important
As the job offer document becomes is a legal agreement with the applicant it is advisable to seek legal counsel to confirm details of the document specific to the terms and conditions of your offer of employment.
