Ultimate HR Checklist for SMEs
As we approach the end of another year, it’s time to reflect, prepare and make sure your business is ready to walk into the next one with confidence. HR has a huge role to play in wrapping up the year, from compliance checks to wellbeing initiatives.
To help you close the year off right Park City has put together an end-of-year HR checklist so you don’t miss anything important.
1. Review and Update Policies
The legislative landscape changes throughout the year and 2024 has been no different. Make sure your employee handbook and policies are up to date with the latest employment laws including:
- The new sexual harassment prevention duty.
- Flexible working rights updates.
- Statutory sick pay and other benefits changes.
Review your policies to ensure they reflect any legislative changes or business updates and communicate these to employees.
2. Employee Engagement Survey
Get feedback from your team to understand their experiences and expectations. Use an anonymous survey to ask:
- How satisfied are they with the workplace.
- How do they perceive management and leadership.
- What can be improved in the next year.
This will inform your HR strategy for 2025.
3. End of Year Performance Reviews
If you haven’t already, schedule and conduct performance reviews. This is a great opportunity to:
- Recognise employee contributions and celebrate achievements.
- Address any areas for improvement.
- Set goals for the next year.
Make sure these conversations are constructive, supportive and aligned to your business’s vision for the future.
4. Compliance and Risk Management
- Review your compliance to ensure all regulations are being met. This includes:
- Health and safety audits.
- Record keeping and documentation for hiring, onboarding and terminations.
- Training logs for mandatory courses, such as anti-harassment and safety protocols.
- If gaps are found, address them to mitigate risk.
5. Holiday Celebrations
Holiday events are a great way to boost morale but come with challenges. To make your celebrations run smoothly:
- Communicate clear guidelines for workplace behaviour, especially with the new harassment prevention laws.
- Consider offering alcohol free options to be inclusive.
- Appoint someone to oversee event safety and deal with any issues.
6. Training Plans 2025
Review your training needs and schedule programs for the next year. Focus on areas like:
Leadership and management development.
- Health and safety compliance.
- New hire onboarding improvements.
- Customised training can equip your team to tackle the future with confidence.
7. Payroll and Benefits Processing
Make sure all year end payroll tasks are complete including:
- Bonus payments and holiday pay.
- Review tax records and ensure submissions are accurate.
- Update employee benefits and enrollment for 2025.
- Communicate clearly with employees about these changes to avoid confusion or dissatisfaction.
8. Celebrate Success
Finish the year on a high by celebrating your team’s achievements. This can include:
- A company wide summary of the year’s big wins.
- Personal recognition for top performers.
- Small treats like holiday gifts or bonus incentives.
9. Workforce Planning 2025
Review your current workforce and forecast your hiring needs for the next year. Consider:
- Skills gaps in the team.
- Business growth or changes.
- Succession planning for key roles.
10. Goals for 2025
Last but not least, get aligned with your leadership team to set HR objectives for 2025. These should cover company wide priorities and specific HR goals such as:
- Improving workplace culture.
- Expanding DEI initiatives.
- Employee retention strategies.
Finishing the year with an HR checklist ensures your business is ready for whatever the new year brings. By ticking off compliance, celebrating and planning for the future you’re setting your business up for a great 2025.
Need help with your year end HR tasks or planning for next year? Get in touch today for advice and guidance to get your business ready for success! We are here to support you with bespoke HR services to help you navigate the new year.