New Year, New Goals: Step-By-Step HR Planning for 2026
As the calendar flips to a fresh year, it’s time to turn your attention to HR planning for 2026. A proactive approach to your people strategy not only keeps you compliant but sets your team up for success in the months ahead. Whether you’re running a small business or managing a growing team, this step-by-step guide will help you tackle your HR planning like a pro.
Step 1: Reflect on 2025
Before diving into the new year, take a moment to reflect on the past one. What worked well? What didn’t? What lessons can you carry forward?
What to review:
Employee turnover and retention rates.
Performance and productivity metrics.
Feedback from employee surveys or one-to-ones.
Successes and challenges in recruitment and onboarding.
Pro tip: Involve your team in this reflection process to gain valuable insights.
Step 2: Set Your HR Goals for 2026
Every great plan starts with clear, actionable goals. Tie your HR objectives to your broader business strategy for maximum impact.
Examples of HR goals:
Improve employee retention by 10%.
Launch a leadership development program.
Streamline the recruitment process to reduce time-to-hire.
Ensure 100% compliance with new employment laws.
Pro tip: Use SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to keep your objectives focused and trackable.
Step 3: Audit Your Policies and Processes
Employment laws evolve, and so should your HR policies. Conduct an audit to ensure you’re up to date and aligned with 2026 regulations.
What to check:
Employee contracts and handbooks.
Policies on remote work, health and safety, and diversity and inclusion.
Compliance with minimum wage changes, holiday entitlements, and parental leave.
Pro tip: Seek advice from an HR expert if you’re unsure about compliance.
Step 4: Plan for Recruitment and Retention
With unemployment rates and talent shortages impacting businesses, a solid recruitment and retention strategy is essential.
Recruitment tips:
Define clear role descriptions and ideal candidate profiles.
Leverage social media and employee referrals to find talent.
Streamline the hiring process to avoid losing top candidates.
Retention tips:
Offer competitive salaries and benefits.
Foster a positive workplace culture.
Provide career development opportunities.
Pro tip: Make onboarding a priority; first impressions matter.
Step 5: Invest in Employee Development
Upskilling your team not only improves performance but also boosts morale and retention. Build employee development into your 2026 plan.
Ideas for development:
Offer online courses, workshops, or certifications.
Create mentorship programs within your team.
Set up regular one-to-ones to discuss career goals.
Pro tip: Align development opportunities with both individual and business needs.
Step 6: Monitor Wellbeing and Work-Life Balance
Happy employees are productive employees. Ensure your 2026 HR plan includes initiatives to support mental health and work-life balance.
What to implement:
Flexible working arrangements.
Access to mental health resources.
Regular check-ins to identify stress points.
Pro tip: Encourage an open dialogue around wellbeing to destigmatise seeking help.
Step 7: Measure and Adjust Throughout the Year
An HR plan isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it task. Review your progress regularly and adjust as needed.
How to measure success:
Track metrics like employee satisfaction, turnover, and absenteeism.
Solicit feedback from your team on new initiatives.
Compare progress against your SMART goals.
Pro tip: Schedule quarterly HR reviews to stay on track.
Why HR Planning Matters
A strong HR plan doesn’t just prevent issues; it drives growth. By prioritising your people, you create a resilient, engaged, and high-performing team ready to tackle whatever 2026 throws your way.
So, grab your notebook (or spreadsheet), gather your team, and start planning. The new year is brimming with possibilities—and with the right HR strategy, your business can seize every single one of them.
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