3rd Quarter Slump – 2023 Edition

Alright, my fellow HR pros, here it is – mid-July.  Welcome to the annual 3^rd quarter slump. 

You know exactly what I’m talking about – everyone is out of the office and no one wants to work on anything.  Meetings keep getting pushed.  More than likely, you’re not starting any new initiatives right now.  You are blowing past the next 3 months in your mind and focusing on 4^th quarter – benefits enrollment, year end preparation, holidays, oh my! 

A lot of us in #HR struggle during the 3^rd quarter.  Just know that you are not alone. 

Here are my suggestions to help you get through:

1. Focus on self-care – take care of you.  When was the last time you did something for yourself?!?  Start that diet/exercise program, get the massage, engage in daily meditation, visit your loved ones.  Is it time to re-vamp your workspace? 
2. Professional development – there are a lot of excellent events taking place this quarter for professional development.  Chances are, you registered for several webinars over the past few months and have not yet gone back to listen to the recordings.  Block out the time on your calendar and enjoy!  Is there a book you’ve been wanting to read?  Now is a great time to dive in.  The best part is that you can do these things from pretty much anywhere – your favorite coffee shop, your home office, pool side – the sky is the limit! 
3. Start your 4^th/1^st quarter calendars – many of us find it easier to schedule things like trainings, team activities, and compliance-required items during the 4^th and 1^st quarters of the year.  To help your leaders and managers plan ahead, send out those calendar invites now.  In my experience, if it’s on the calendar it gets done. 
4. Open enrollment – at the very least, let your employees know it is coming and when.  You know they don’t read every email you send, so communicate often and in various formats.  Benefits are the second most important thing employers give to employees (next to payroll).  And for the level of importance, employee benefits are complicated and confusing.  We understand them; most employees do not.  Please do everything in your power to assist your people in navigating the open enrollment process.  It matters. 

Best of luck as you navigate the next 72 days.  God speed.

There is good news – only 44 days until Ohio State football kicks off!!!!