Graphic Media Alliance

07/07/2026

Mid-Year HR Checkup: Five Areas Every Employer Should Review

The start of July isn't just the beginning of a new quarter. It's also an ideal opportunity to step back and evaluate your workforce strategy before the busy fall season begins.

Whether you have 15 employees or 150, taking a proactive approach to HR can reduce risk, strengthen employee engagement, and ensure your business is prepared for the months ahead. Here are five areas every printing and graphic communications company should consider reviewing this summer.

1. Employee Handbook & Workplace Policies

Have your policies kept pace with today's workplace? Review your employee handbook to ensure policies related to attendance, remote work, leave, harassment prevention, technology, and workplace expectations accurately reflect how your business operates today.

Graphic Media Alliance can help: Members have access to HR guidance, policy resources, and experienced professionals to answer employment questions before they become problems.

2. Compensation & Benefits

When was the last time you compared your wages and benefits against the rest of the industry? Competitive compensation plays a critical role in recruiting and retaining employees.

Graphic Media Alliance can help: Participate in the 2025 Wage + Benefits Survey to receive the industry's most comprehensive benchmarking reports and analytics at no cost to participating members.

3. Employee Classifications & Wage Compliance

Now is a good time to review exempt and non-exempt classifications, overtime practices, and wage policies to ensure they remain accurate as employee responsibilities evolve.

Graphic Media Alliance can help: Our HR resources and trusted legal partners can help members navigate employment questions and identify when additional guidance may be appropriate.

4. AI & Technology in the Workplace

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday business operations. If employees are using AI tools for writing, customer service, design, or administration, now is the time to establish clear expectations around confidentiality, data security, and responsible use.

Graphic Media Alliance can help: Through webinars, educational programs, and trusted technology partners, we continue to provide practical guidance on emerging technologies impacting our industry.

5. Safety & Workforce Training

Summer brings unique workplace challenges, including heat-related hazards, vacations, temporary staffing, and onboarding new employees. Reviewing safety procedures and providing refresher training now can help reduce incidents and improve productivity throughout the remainder of the year.

Graphic Media Alliance can help: From OSHA resources and safety guidance to leadership development through the Emerging Leaders Academy, we offer tools to help companies invest in both compliance and employee growth.

A mid-year review doesn't have to become a major project. Even spending a few hours evaluating these five areas can position your company for a stronger second half of the year.

Need help getting started? Contact the Graphic Media Alliance team. Whether you need HR guidance, compensation benchmarking, workforce training, or connections to trusted industry experts, we're here to help you build a stronger business.