Reminder for End-of-Year Things

If you do them this week, you don't have to think about them next week

It’s the second half of December, so it’s a great time to get all your “waterfowl in an orderly arrangement.”

What do you need to do to close out the year? Put them on the calendar or to-do list for this week and take a well-earned break next week.

Tax stuff:
Do you need to submit any forms before the end of the year? Do you need to request any for the start of next year? Do you need to confirm delivery dates to get materials to your accountant? Do you have current info for employees and independent contractors (even those no longer working with you), so you can send tax forms (W-2, 1099, etc.) next month?

2022 payments:
Do you need to pay any contractors or vendors in 2022? Do you need to invoice any customers in 2022? Make sure your revenue/expenses are in the correct calendar year.

Start 2023 off right:
Do you have your vendors lined up for 2023 with current contracts, etc.? Consider things like cleaning crews, plowers for the parking lot, re-stockers for the break room, etc.

Close out performance reviews:
Make sure you’ve completed all of the 2022 performance reviews well before the end of the week. It’s not fair to give people things to think about (or beat themselves up over) on a holiday week, when they might not be able to swing by your office for some clarification that could set their minds at ease.

Set up the office to be closed (if you are closing next week):
Make the appropriate security arrangements. Make a checklist for the last day, including cleaning out the office fridge, unplugging SOME items for power-saving (DON’T unplug the fridge or the wifi used by the security cameras!), and lowering the thermostat. Make arrangements to water the plants and/or feed the fish, if appropriate.

Set your away messages:
Don’t forget to activate your email and voicemail away messages, and to put the “turn off away messages” on your calendar for the first day back.

If this is all taken care of, you are free to enjoy the holiday party, wrap your presents, light your candles, and otherwise enjoy the season!

(Photo by Steve Smith on Unsplash)