Preparing for the End-of-Year Rush: What HR Can Start Now

Use July to Get Ahead of Performance Reviews, Budgeting, and Planning

Q4 often hits fast—and hard. Between performance reviews, budget planning, open enrollment, and year-end reporting, it can feel like a sprint with no time to breathe.

But smart HR teams use July to get ahead. Think of it as the calm before the storm—and the perfect time to prep systems and timelines so you're not scrambling later.

Start With These Areas

📈 Performance Reviews

• Audit your process: Are your review forms still working? Are timelines reasonable?

• Align with leadership: Confirm key dates and expectations for year-end conversations.

• Train managers: Offer refresher sessions on giving effective feedback and avoiding bias.

💰 Budget Forecasting

• Review past L&D, benefits, and hiring spend

• Connect with department heads to gather headcount and resource needs

• Consider what new tools or training may be needed next year

🛠️ HR Tech and Systems

• Are your tools supporting efficiency—or adding friction?

• Identify gaps in reporting, self-serve functionality, or automation before year-end demand spikes

📊 Engagement Planning

• Design or refine your employee engagement survey

• Plan pulse checks and communication timelines

• Identify areas for action before the data rolls in

Final Thought

You don’t have to solve Q4 in July—but the more structure and visibility you build now, the smoother the second half of the year becomes. Your future self—and your team—will thank you.