Nine Critical HR and Payroll Steps to Prepare Your Restaurant for 2025

A new year is creeping up on us again, bringing fresh opportunities—and challenges—for restaurant operators. With so much already on your year-end plates, how can you find the time to lay the groundwork for team and business success in 2025?

Below, I’ve outlined nine key HR and payroll items to prioritize over the coming weeks that will also start next year off right. From updating policies to gearing up for tax season, these steps will enhance your compliance and position your restaurant for sustained growth.  

1. Update Your Employee Handbook Your employee handbook sets the tone for your culture by establishing expectations and aligning your team toward a common goal and vision. 

Focus on:

Emerging Regulations: Revise the handbook to include new laws effective in 2025, such as minimum wage adjustments, paid leave requirements, or other regulatory updates.   Clarifying Policies: Revisit key policies like attendance, performance, and conduct to ensure they’re clear…