Open enrollment season can feel like a whirlwind with tight deadlines, constant questions, and the pressure to get every detail right. As an HR professional you’re not just managing logistics; you’re helping employees make decisions that affect their health, their families, and their peace of mind. If you’ve ever wanted to curl up at your desk or sneak away for a quiet moment, you’re in good company.
To offer some real-world perspective, we reached out to a few HR colleagues for their honest advice on managing the stress and complexity of open enrollment. Here’s what helps them get through the chaos and support their teams.
The HR rollercoaster: When open enrollment feels impossible
This year, the challenges are even greater, with added layers of complexity:
- Rising healthcare costs and shifting plan options
- Regulatory updates and uncertainty
- Technological hurdles
- The need for clear communication and compliance
It’s a lot to manage. But HR professionals are nothing if not resilient. They turn uncertainty into clarity for their teams — all while carrying their own load. So, what actually helps when open enrollment is in full swing? Here’s what fellow HR leaders say works for them:
Tips from HR leaders who have been there
How I keep the workload manageable:
"Open enrollment can be a lot, so I've found it helps to start with a clear timeline and lean on both internal and external resources. Simplifying communications, equipping support teams, and delegating tasks keeps the workload manageable. Just as important, I make space for breaks and try to keep a sense of humor along the way." — Trish King, Director of Benefits, Bread Financial
What helps me support my team:
"As an HR leader, I’ve found that staying grounded starts with setting clear boundaries and focusing on what truly matters. I make time for quick team check-ins, celebrate small wins along the way, and lean into mindfulness to keep my energy up and stress levels down. These small habits help me stay present, support my team, and navigate the season with a bit more ease." — Eric M. Saidel, Assistant Vice Provost, Human Resources, Weill Cornell Medicine
How I handle the juggling act:
“Open enrollment season can feel like a high-stakes juggling act for benefits teams—balancing employee questions, vendor coordination, system updates, and tight deadlines. Proactive planning, clear communication strategies, and coordination with internal and external partners help stay grounded and in control. Frequent team huddles, peer support and finding humor in stressful moments can go a long way. It's not just about surviving the season—it’s about making sure your team, and every employee feels supported and informed.” — Dana Blenner, Vice President of Benefits Strategy, Bright Horizons
Tackle open enrollment with confidence and community
Open enrollment is tough, but it’s a shared experience. The long hours, endless questions, and moments of exhaustion are real—but so are the sparks of humor and teamwork that get us through.
At Bright Horizons, we understand just how demanding this time can be, and we’re here to support you however we can. Contact us to explore solutions that ease the stress of open enrollment and help you achieve your benefits goals with confidence.
