Starting the New Year Strong: Compliance Made Simple

Welcome to 2025—Where Career Resolutions Are Bold and Compliance Is a Power Move!

For managers and employers, staying ahead of legislative changes is not just a task to tick off—it’s a strategic imperative for driving compliance, fostering trust, and safeguarding organizational success—it’s the key to empowering your team and driving your business forward.

New laws? Updated regulations? Let’s tackle them head-on!

The start of the year is your chance to refresh, realign, and position your workplace as a benchmark for excellence.

As leaders, we’re not just expected to comply—we’re expected to guide our teams through evolving landscapes with clarity and confidence.

It requires managerial courage to execute. Don't fall short! Your people deserve better.

Here’s the ultimate checklist every employer and manager should have on their radar as the year kicks off.

1. Review Updated Labor Laws and Regulations

The start of the year often brings new labor laws, minimum wage adjustments, and updates to workplace policies.

• Action Step: Audit your policies and handbooks to ensure they align with the latest state and federal requirements.
• Tip: Highlight key updates for your team to keep everyone informed and aligned.

2. Update Workplace Postings

Ensure your workplace displays the most recent labor law posters, as required by law.

• Action Step: Check your state’s labor department for updates to mandatory posters.
• Tip: Consider digital posting options if your team operates remotely.

3. W-2 and 1099 Deadlines

January is a busy time for tax documentation, with W-2s for employees and 1099s for contractors due to the IRS by January 31.

• Action Step: Verify employee and contractor information to avoid delays.
• Tip: Leverage payroll software to streamline this process.

4. Conduct Compliance Training

Reinforce key compliance topics like harassment prevention, safety standards, and data privacy.

• Action Step: Schedule mandatory training sessions for new and existing employees.
• Tip: Incorporate role-specific compliance topics for managers and leaders.

5. Plan for Annual Reporting

Review reporting requirements for your industry, including OSHA logs, EEO-1 filings, and other applicable reports.

• Action Step: Assign responsibilities for data collection and reporting to meet deadlines.
• Tip: Keep a compliance calendar to track key dates and avoid last-minute scrambles.

6. Prepare for Performance Reviews

By now year end performance evaluations should have taken place. January is ideal for addressing year-end performance evaluations and goal setting.

• Action Step: Establish a clear timeline and criteria for reviews.
• Tip: Use this opportunity to align employee goals with company compliance priorities.

7. Evaluate Benefits and Policies

Ensure your benefits and leave policies comply with new legislation, including updates to paid sick leave or family leave laws. Outdated employee handbooks are the number one way to increase risk, litigation, or employee claims.

• Action Step: Communicate changes to employees and provide resources for understanding new benefits.
• Tip: Keep records of all communications for audit purposes.

8. Check on Employee Well-Being

Compliance isn’t just about legal requirements; fostering a healthy work environment is essential.

• Action Step: Schedule manager check-ins to gauge team morale and well-being.
• Tip: Offer resources for mental health support and work-life balance.

Start the Year Right!

Taking these steps ensures a compliant and cohesive work environment that benefits everyone. Remember, preparation is key to minimizing risks and building a strong foundation for success. Operational excellence is no coincidence!

For more insights on compliance and tactical management, stay connected with us at Management Cues! 

If your company needs support with new year management and leadership training, or development program planning and training, we encourage you to explore our management programs and reach out for support at info@managementcues.org.