Employee memorandums provide information and clarify expectations.
Most employees receive memorandums from time to time and, in some cases, had to write them, especially if they work in a corporate setting. Corporations are famous for sending out memos in an attempt to effectively communicate with multiple individuals at once. In general, memorandums are concise and directed to many at once. An employee would not likely receive a memo about his personal pay raise or request for time off. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding is not typical for a workplace setting.
Informative
Employee memos are typically meant to inform the masses. So, if a new employee joins the company, management will send out a memo to introduce this person and explain his role. Memos may inform employees about a new policy or a change in reporting structure for the company, as well. Informative memos provide general facts and details about staff, policies and events.
Directive
Some memos direct employees to do something or change a behavior. The memo might explain about an unmet quota or an increase in expenditure. The Human Resources Department may send out a revised or specific dress code policy. Usually, the purpose of these memos is to alert employees to a potential problem or challenge they need to be aware of or overcome. There is an action expected or implied.
Clarifying
A clarifying memo might start out be saying "It has come to our attention that...." The purpose is to offer further explanation on a policy or even dispute a circulating rumor. Clarifying memos offer more explanation or added details about a previous sent out memo. In some cases, management will send out a clarifying memo upon updating or changing the employee policy or regulation. Alternately, a group of employees may create a memo to clarify something a supervisor said or to clarify expectations.
Responding
A response memo responds to a request from another department or a group of employees, such as a committee. This might pertain to a meeting time change or office rearrangement. It documents the request and what will occur or not occur as a result of a response. Employees at all levels may write and send out this type of memo.
Social
Social memos alert you to upcoming company picnics, volunteer days or potlucks scheduled in different departments. If the company is large, you are more likely to receive a memo about a company-wide social opportunity. Smaller organizations might not take the time to put this kind of information in a memo; you would just be told.
