May can feel like a balancing act. You’re deep into the year’s momentum, but summer vacations, mid-year reviews, and budget planning are right around the corner. It’s the perfect time to knock out a few key projects that will keep your office running smoothly through the busy months ahead. Here’s a look at some smart jobs to tackle in May.
1. Mid-Year Planning and Goal Check-In
Before summer distractions set in, take time to review your office’s progress on the goals you set at the start of the year. Are you on track? Are there areas that need adjusting? Meet with department heads or key team members to assess what’s working and what needs a course correction. This proactive step keeps everyone focused and motivated moving into the second half of the year.
2. Prep for Summer Schedules
Summer brings shifting schedules, time-off requests, and possibly lighter workloads — or heavier ones, depending on your industry. Now’s the time to plan for it. Create or update your vacation calendar, make sure coverage plans are in place, and communicate clearly about expectations. Handling this now means fewer last-minute scrambles later.
3. Office Clean-Up and Organization
A mid-year refresh can work wonders for morale. Encourage departments to do a spring cleaning of their workspaces — physical and digital. Clear out old files, organize supply closets, and archive outdated materials. If the breakroom fridge is starting to look scary, this is the perfect time to tackle that too. A cleaner, more organized environment makes everyone’s work life a little easier.
4. Technology and Equipment Check
It’s easy to let tech maintenance slide when you’re busy, but small problems can become big ones if left unchecked. Run updates on computers, check the condition of printers, inspect office phones, and schedule any needed maintenance. If new equipment or software upgrades are needed before the next budget cycle, start gathering quotes and preparing proposals now.
5. Staff Development and Training
With new interns or temporary summer help possibly joining the team, May is a good month to fine-tune onboarding materials or set up refresher training for current staff. You might also consider offering professional development sessions — something light and engaging to re-energize the team before the summer months.
6. Budget Forecasting
If your office operates on a calendar year, you’re just a few months away from budget planning. Start reviewing expenses now. Identify trends, spot unexpected costs, and begin compiling a realistic forecast for the remainder of the year. Laying the groundwork in May can make the official budget process much less stressful later.
7. Team Building Activities
Morale can take a dip in the transition from spring to summer. Organize a casual team-building activity to maintain a strong sense of community. It doesn’t have to be complicated — a team lunch, an office picnic, or even a friendly competition like a trivia challenge can give everyone a needed boost.