As a small to mid-sized business owner, the beginning of the calendar year is a critical period for setting the foundation of success for the months ahead. Human resources (HR) tasks play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth and productive year, and having a knowledgeable HR consultant by your side can make a significant difference. In this guide, we'll explore the essential HR tasks tailored for businesses of your scale, highlighting the value an HR consultant brings to the table. In order to set your business up for a successful year, these tasks should all be achieved by the end of Q1.

1- Compliance Reviews and Updates:

For small to mid-sized businesses, navigating the ever-changing landscape of employment laws and regulations can be challenging. An HR consultant is your ally in conducting a thorough compliance review, ensuring that your policies, procedures, and employee handbooks are not only up-to-date but also tailored to the specific needs of your business.

2- Employee Handbook Updates:

Your HR consultant understands the importance of a clear and concise employee handbook for businesses like yours. They can assist in reviewing and updating the handbook, incorporating any changes in policies, benefits, or legal requirements. This ensures that your employees are well-informed about the guidelines and expectations unique to your organization.

3- Benefits Administration and Open Enrollment:

With an HR consultant, the benefits administration and open enrollment process become streamlined and efficient. They can work closely with benefits providers to communicate plan changes, educate your employees on available options, and ensure a smooth enrollment process, all while keeping your budget in mind.

4- Goal Setting and Performance Management:

Small to mid-sized businesses thrive on focused and aligned efforts. An HR consultant can help you establish clear goals and expectations, ensuring that individual and team efforts align with your organizational objectives. This strategic approach to performance management enhances productivity and contributes to the overall success of your business.

If you don’t have a system in place, Nimble Advisors can help you find a custom-tailored solution to selecting a performance management platform that will automate your performance management processes. Additionally, we provide training on many of the systems we recommend to our clients. Managing the performance of your team should not be an afterthought once you’ve on-boarded your employees.

5- Training and Development Initiatives:

Investing in employee development is vital for the growth of small to mid-sized businesses. An HR consultant can identify skill gaps within your workforce and design training programs tailored to your specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that your employees acquire the skills necessary for the unique challenges your business faces. By the end of Q1, you and your management team should have a development plan in place for each of your employees with an identified budget for developing their skills.

6- Employee Engagement Surveys:

Understanding and improving employee satisfaction is crucial for small to mid-sized businesses. An HR consultant can conduct employee engagement surveys, providing valuable insights into the organizational climate. With the results, they can develop targeted action plans to address concerns, fostering a positive work environment.

7- Talent Acquisition Strategy:

As a small to mid-sized business owner, having the right talent is key to your success. An HR consultant can assess your staffing needs, analyze turnover rates, and develop a strategic talent acquisition plan that aligns with your business goals. This proactive approach ensures that your organization attracts and retains top talent throughout the year.

8- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives:

Evaluate existing DEI programs, adjust as needed, set measurable goals, and implement strategies tailored to create an inclusive workplace culture that reflects the values of your business. For small to mid-sized businesses committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, an HR consultant can be a valuable partner.

Conclusion

As a small to mid-sized business owner, partnering with an HR consultant is a strategic move to maximize success in the upcoming year. By addressing compliance, updating policies, and investing in employee development, you're not only ensuring compliance but also fostering a positive and productive work environment. With the guidance of an HR consultant, your business is well-positioned for success in the months ahead.

Have you completed the tasks above yet? The end of the first quarter is right around the corner, if you need help, maybe its time we had a conversation about how Nimbe Advisors can help- Get in touch with us and Let’s Talk!