Hiring your first employee: the paperwork that matters

Contracts, right-to-work checks, payroll and a simple handbook. The short list every founder should finish before day one.

A lawyer and a colleague reviewing an employment contract

Your first hire is a milestone, and a few documents make it a smooth one. Getting them right now saves difficult conversations later.

A written contract

Employees are entitled to a written statement of their main terms from day one. A clear contract also covers notice, confidentiality and who owns the work they create.

Right-to-work checks

Check and copy the documents before the first day, and keep a record of when you did it.

Payroll and pensions

Register as an employer, set up payroll and check whether you need to enrol your new hire in a workplace pension.