Back to School, Back to Business

The uniforms are ironed, the lunchboxes are packed, and the school gates are buzzing again. For many of us, that back to school feeling isn’t just for the kids, it’s a reminder that the summer lull is over, and it’s time to refocus at work too. For many companies, it’s the perfect moment to pause, take stock, and set clearpriorities to finish the year strong.

When was the last time you checked in with your team about their goals? September might just be the perfect moment to do it.

One of the first things to consider is your people (HR) plan. Just as schools map out the academic year ahead, now is a great time to review your workforce needs. Do you have the right people in the right roles? Are there any skills gaps that could hold you back as you head into the busy final quarter? And if your business has a seasonal rush before Christmas, this is the moment to plan your recruitment strategy so you’re not scrambling later. A quick workforce audit in September can save you a lot of stress come December.

September also lends itself to a mid-point performance check-in. While many businesses wait until the end of the year for appraisals, a quick review now can make a big difference. Are your teams on track to hit their objectives? Do individuals have clarity on what success looks like between now and year-end? Regular performance conversations boost motivation and help everyone stay aligned with business goals.

Training and development is another area worth refreshing. After the summer break, teams often feel recharged and ready to learn. This is the ideal time to introduce manager training to help leaders feel more confident, roll out compliance refresher courses, or even schedule wellbeing workshops to support mental health as the darker evenings approach. Investing in your people’s skills and wellbeing now will pay off when productivity and engagement are needed most.

It’s also a good idea to review your HR policies and compliance. Employment law and best practice change constantly, and this time of year offers the perfect opportunity to make sure your documentation is current. From flexible working arrangements to diversity and inclusion policies, being proactive now avoids the last minute rush if an audit or issue arises.

Finally, don’t forget employee wellbeing and engagement. The “back to school” season can be particularly stressful for all, not just working parents juggling school runs, homework, and work commitments. September can be a whirlwind for working parents trying to remember which day is PE kit day or is it Pumpkin Spice Latte season yet, all whilst juggling client deadlines. Simple measures like offering flexible hours, promoting wellbeing initiatives, or organising a fun team activity can help staff feel supported and energised as they settle back into routine.

At Ig-hr, we specialise in helping start-ups and SMEs plan for success with practical, people-focused HR support. If you’re ready to swap the summer slowdown for a strong finish to the year, we’re here to help. Let’s build a plan that works for your people and your business.

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