Fall means football season, pumpkin season, and oh yes — open enrollment season. For many HR pros, that means stress, panic and very long days (and nights). But it is possible to make this time of year less frantic and more productive. We've learned a thing or two (or seven) from our clients — as well as from our own experience as a growing company. These are our favorite survival tips.

1. Do not fly solo.

HR cannot run open enrollment in a vacuum. So lean on consultants and communication pros to craft your messaging. Turn to senior leaders for top-down messaging on why changes are happening. Bring in your benefit vendors to explain the impact of changes and walk employees through the enrollment process. Like many things, open enrollment takes a village, so use yours.