Below are the general university and OVPC guidelines that you should become familiar with in your new role at U-M:

Standard Practice Guide

The university has its policies available to review in our Standard Practice Guide (SPG). Review these contents within your first two weeks, and be sure to ask your supervisor for any clarifications you may need.

Freedom of Information Act

All employees of this state university are considered government employees and subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). What we write or record may be provided to anyone who requests it under the FOIA. You should familiarize yourself with how this may impact your work.

Conflict of Interest

OVPC has developed its own Conflict of Interest/Conflict of Commitment policy. You will receive a copy for your review and signature within your first week. Along with addressing conflicts of interest, we ask that you sign an Outside Employment/Activity Disclosure. This form is part of the Year-end Review Discussion document.

OVPC Compensation Philosophy

The Office of the Vice President for Communications seeks to recruit and retain accomplished individuals, committed to advancing the reputation of and vast achievements within the University of Michigan. We strive to compensate our employees in ways that reward contribution, recognize quality performance, and encourage growth and development. View the full OVPC Compensation Philosophy.

Dress Code

Specific units throughout OVPC have their own policies regarding appropriate dress. In general, dress is business casual, unless meeting with executive officers, deans or regents.

Involvement in Political Activities

Many members of the U-M community want to know about their rights and responsibilities, as state employees, in campaigning for or against a candidate or ballot initiative. We have developed the following information and guidelines to help you understand the many activities in which you may engage, either as a private citizen or as a member of our campus community, as well as those for which U-M resources cannot be used, under Michigan law.