It is the time of year when the pace accelerates, expectations rise and the margin for error narrows.
Four questions that are worth reviewing before Q4 starts in earnest.
- Do you have the right headcount for autumn delivery?
Not in theory — in practice. If a key person leaves next month, if sick leave increases, if a project expands — do you have backup? Headcount planning is not just an HR responsibility. It is a business responsibility. - Are roles clearly defined?
Organizations change. People grow, people leave, responsibilities shift. What looked right on an organizational chart six months ago does not always match today's reality. A quick review of roles and responsibilities before Q4 can prevent the kind of unclear ownership that costs the most during peak season. - Are your managers prepared?
Q4 is demanding for leaders. Delivery pressures, budget processes, performance reviews, recruitment — everything happens at once. Are your managers prepared? Do they have the tools, the mandates and the support they need? Or are they alone with a too heavy a burden? - What have you been putting off since spring?
There is always a pile. Issues that should have been addressed but were not. Conflicts simmering beneath the surface. Structures that should have been reviewed. Those questions do not disappear on their own. And they will become harder to deal with during peak season than they are now.
Take half a day. Go through the list. Prioritise.
If you have thoughts, questions, or simply want to talk something through — feel free to get in touch. I am happy to have an initial conversation with no agenda.
Right person. Right place. Everything changes.