Why is an offer of employment letter needed?
The letter of offer clarifies for both the employer and potential employee the conditions of employment and what will be required by the employer from the potential employee. Be careful in what you commit to in writing as the letter of offer could be seen as a contract should the employee later dispute what you offered. Key areas to cover in a letter of offer are: starting date, compensation, benefits, hours, probationary period, vacation time, performance expectations in the probationary period and any special offerings i.e. hiring bonus, relocation assistance, retention bonus, etc. The offer of employment is finalized when both the employer and potential employee sign the letter. A copy of the letter should be given to the new employee.
