The Wise Business Owner Checklist

Benjamin Franklin famously advised, "Fail to prepare, prepare to fail." January is often the time for business owners to prepare for the year ahead by refreshing their business plans, to seize opportunities and mitigate risks. With 2025 set to be as fast-paced, volatile, and challenging as ever, taking a moment to review your employment basics is essential for any wise business owner.

I am proud to be the President of the Kingston Chamber of Commerce. It is an honour to help encourage and create opportunities for local businesses.

Here’s a checklist to ensure you have the foundational employment practices in place:

Strategy Communication: Ensure your business strategy is clearly communicated to the team.

Updated Employment Contracts: Verify that all employment contracts are current and compliant.

Current Employee Handbook: Keep the employee handbook up to date with the latest policies.

Job Descriptions: Provide clear job descriptions for every role.

Mandatory eLearning: Implement eLearning modules for mandatory training.

Managerial Training: Offer essential training programs for managers.

Performance Reviews:

Conduct regular performance reviews and appraisals.

Electronic Employee Files:

Maintain electronic files for all employees.

Wage Increase Budget:

Allocate a budget for wage increases effective from April.

Engagement Surveys and Exit Interviews: Regularly conduct employee engagement surveys and exit interviews.

Having these foundational practices in place is crucial to optimizing business success. As part of your business planning process, review this list, identify areas for improvement, and make a plan to implement necessary changes promptly.

If you have questions for Porter the Sorter, email hrhelp@hrdept.co.uk for consideration for future editions.

The HR Dept provides outsourced HR services to support local SMEs with their people issues and strategy. For advice on employment practices or to schedule a free HR consultation, please call 0345 208 1290. Always seek employment law advice regarding management of your people issues to ensure that you and your business are well protected from potential litigation risks.

Some years ago, I was part of a small team that decided to take the Kingston Borough Business Awards in-house. With the backing of Kingston University, The Council, Kingston College and our Patron Members, Forbes and the Chamber team got to work. Four years, later, we have established one of the most exciting and innovative business awards in London.

I urge all businesses, large or small to enter the 2025 awards. The publicity and confidence boost experienced by winners and runners-up is immense.

I know that the real benefit of the awards is that by entering, you will realise what makes your business unique. Taking an objective look at your strengths and weaknesses is often the catalyst for growth and a brighter business future!

Please enter the awards, I promise you that there will be a category to suit you.

In the meantime, have a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Christopher Hirsch President, Kingston Chamber of Commerce