by Julie Tuggle-Nguyen
As we approach the end of the year, the human resources function becomes a whirlwind of activity. For those operating on an annual calendar, the fall is particularly busy. From budgeting to benefits, performance reviews to policy updates, HR leaders juggle numerous responsibilities that set the stage for a smooth start to the new year.
Here’s an outline of key HR initiatives every small business leader should tackle before year-end.
1. Open Enrollment for Health Insurance and Benefits
Fall is the time to evaluate employee benefits packages. This can be one of the most challenging tasks as healthcare costs continue to rise. According to a Mercer survey, 2025 will mark the third consecutive year in which healthcare costs for employers will increase by over 5%. Here are some steps to take as you navigate this task:
- Review Current Contracts: Ensure you understand the terms and limits within your contracts. Are there opportunities to adjust or negotiate for better coverage?
- Request Proposals from Multiple Vendors: Obtain competitive bids to see if better pricing or coverage options are available.
- Listen and Communicate Effectively: Your employees need to be in the loop. Host informational sessions where you explain the available benefits, any changes, and the value they provide. Make it personal and clear that employee feedback has been considered.
- Highlight Perks: Remind employees of the perks that come with their employment, from health savings accounts to wellness and development programs.
2. Performance Management
Performance management is another major focus as we head into the year’s end. At Midwest BankCentre, we kick off our performance management process on November 1 and it continues through March. Some companies try to complete this process before the holidays, but it’s important to allow enough time for employees to thoughtfully reflect on their performance and managers to give meaningful feedback.
- Initiate Self-Appraisals: Encourage employees to complete self-assessments and set annual goals for the coming year.
- Manager Reviews: Managers should review and evaluate self-appraisals and provide feedback promptly to ensure alignment on expectations and goals.
- Compensation Adjustments: Plan for any pay changes or bonuses that will go into effect early in the new year. It’s a good idea to start communicating compensation plans early, so employees understand the criteria for raises or bonuses.
3. Policy Reevaluation
The end of the year is the perfect time to review and refresh your company policies. At our Bank, we make it a practice to update the employee handbook every fourth quarter and roll it out for signatures in the first quarter of the new year.
- Focus on Compliance: Ensure your policies are up-to-date with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Gather Feedback: Talk to managers and employees about what’s working and what’s not. Their input can help shape necessary updates.
- Rollout Plan: Plan how you will communicate any policy changes and obtain signatures or acknowledgments from employees in the new year.
4. Paid Time Off Planning
Many employees may have unused vacation time left at the end of the year. As the holidays approach, it’s crucial to remind your team to plan their time off in advance.
- Notify Employees: Send reminders about time-off policies and deadlines for using vacation days.
- Ensure Coverage: Make sure your teams are staffed appropriately, especially during the busy holiday season. Collaborate with managers to ensure there’s coverage for essential roles.
5. Employee Recognition and Celebrations
As leaders, it’s easy to focus on what’s next, but don’t miss the opportunity to pause and acknowledge the people who help us make it all happen. Celebrating milestones and achievements is so important for employee morale, and it doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate. Here are some ideas for celebrating your team:
- Host a Gathering: Whether it’s a formal party, a simple office potluck, or a dinner at your home, taking time to come together as a team is always appreciated.
- Handwritten Notes: Personal, handwritten notes from leadership can leave a lasting impact.
- Team Volunteer Day: Consider organizing a group volunteer event to give back to the community and strengthen team bonds.
The fall season in HR is about balancing strategic planning with thoughtful execution. Being proactive and intentional with your communication, planning, and recognition will ensure a strong finish to the year and set the tone for success in the year ahead.
Julie Tuggle-Nguyen is Chief Human Resources Officer at Midwest BankCentre.