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The HRCI Research Hub brings together original studies, workforce polling, reports, and expert analysis, so you can act on what's happening now and prepare for what's next.

The State of HR Featured Reports
Featured Research

Recovery as a Workforce Strategy

Drawing on HRCI research, workforce data, and expert insight, this report examines the workplace impact of substance use disorder and the practical steps HR can take to strengthen culture, manager readiness, benefits, policies, and recovery support.

Recovery Strategy
Did You Know?
59%
Workplace Relationship Policies
say their company does not enforce policies prohibiting romantic relationships between employees
Source: HRCI Alchemizing HR poll, January 2025
89%
Leadership Overreach
say leaders take on problems that should belong to someone else
Source: HRCI Alchemizing HR webinar poll, April 2026
55%
Political Discussions at Work
of HR professionals are somewhat, minimally, or not at all prepared to handle politically-charged discussions at work
Source: HRCI Report — Managing Political Polarization in the Workplace, 2025
Recent Reports

Original research and expert analysis on the issues shaping HR today, from workforce safety and emerging technology to DEI and employee well-being.

Managing the Changing Workplace

From return-to-office decisions and hybrid work to contractors and other non-traditional workers, this HRCI report explores the latest research and how HR can use data to make more informed, evidence-based workplace decisions.

The Secret Ingredients of Workplace Fulfillment

From career paths to culture, this research identifies what actually separates HR professionals who are just getting by from those who are truly fulfilled—and what leaders can do to close that gap and build a more committed team.

The Vital Role of Professional Development

This research uncovers where professional development is falling short, from misaligned training priorities to gaps in AI readiness, and what it takes to build a workforce equipped for what's next.

Small Conflicts Don't Stay Small

From bullying, political tension to substance use and violence prevention, this research covers workplace safety—what the data reveals, what's at stake, and what you can do to reduce risk and build a more resilient organization.

The State of HR

The 2026 State of HR Report

Based on HRCI’s survey of thousands of HR professionals, the State of HR report examines the issues defining the profession today. From AI and workplace culture to talent, leadership, and career growth, the report reveals how HR teams are adapting to change and preparing for the future. Explore the data, trends, and insights shaping the world of work below.

Download the Full Report

State of HR Spotlight Reports

Safety, Polarization, and Stress

Half of HR professionals work in environments marked by polarized viewpoints, and 4 in 10 describe their stress as extreme or high. Find out what the data reveals about conflict, mental health, and what it means for your organization.

HR Professionals and Their Outlook for HR

HR professionals are broadly optimistic about their field — but over 4 in 10 are considering careers outside of it. Explore what's driving both the enthusiasm and the tension, and what it takes to build a team of true HR believers.

HR Professionals and Technological Change

71% of HR professionals use AI regularly, yet more than half say implementing new technology is the area they feel least prepared to handle. See where the preparation gap is widest and what needs to change now.

Attitudes Toward Remote Work

83% of HR professionals believe remote work benefits organizations—but the debate is far from settled. Get the data on where HR stands on flexibility, productivity, and the return-to-office conversation.

Professionals Problem Solving

More Insights for HR Professionals

Explore the issues shaping HR today and get the data you need to lead with confidence, make informed decisions, and move the profession forward.

Recovery friendly workplaces reduce absenteeism, improve retention, and strengthen workplace culture—yet most organizations haven't made meaningful progress. This HRCI and Fors Marsh research reveals why: stigma, undertrained HR teams, and weak leadership buy-in top the list. Understand where the gaps are and what organizations that get it right do differently. 

Earning an HRCI certification builds earning power. Within four years, the median HRCI certificant earns 33% more than they did before getting certified. That's double the salary growth of comparable HR professionals over the same period. See what the data shows about the career and financial impact of HRCI certification. 

HR is ready to lead, but is the organization ready to let it? This 2024 HRCI and MindEdge research report surfaces a striking disconnect: while 88% of HR professionals believe HR should drive business strategy, only half say leadership agrees. Add in underfunding, understaffing, and persistent burnout, and the case for rethinking HR's role has never been stronger. 

AI is reshaping the workplace, and HR professionals are watching closely. This HRCI and MindEdge survey of HR practitioners reveals how the profession is navigating AI adoption, persistent burnout, rising turnover, and the evolving push and pull of remote work. Find out where your peers stand, and what the data means for the work you do every day. 

 

Research Archive

Browse our complete library of research reports, guides, and frameworks. Whether you're building a business case, navigating a workforce challenge, or staying ahead of what's next, the intelligence you need is here.

 

Ai Superpower
Extreme Weather and the Workplace

From rising absenteeism to safety risks, HRCI research reveals how extreme weather is reshaping workforce management and what HR can do now.

Ai Superpower
Strengthening AI Skills in HR

Over three-quarters of HR professionals use AI weekly, but most have had little to no training. Learn how to build real confidence and capability starting today.

Empowering the Intelligent Workplace

Explore how HR can turn AI adoption into a strategic advantage—balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.

Becoming Recovery-Friendly

This research-backed guide gives HR professionals the data and practical steps to build a recovery-friendly culture that reduces risk and supports your people.

Diversity Initiatives in 2025

The report explores the realities of managing DEI programs in today’s climate—where values alignment, stakeholder trust, and business performance are all on the line.

Managing Political Polarization in the Workplace

This report provides critical insights and actionable strategies for HR leaders to foster a more harmonious and productive work environment. 

Webinar online learning

Beyond the Data

HRCI webinars go beyond the basics. Each session unpacks the trends, data, and real-world strategies HR professionals need to lead with confidence today and adapt to what's coming next.

 

HR Leads Business Blog

News and perspectives on the issues driving the HR profession forward.

Feb 14, 2022, 20:47 PM by Jayne Somes-Schloesser, SPHR, CAE, Guest Blogger

"A Guide to the Human Resource Body of Knowledge," from HRCI, Provides HR Professionals With Preparation and Inspiration

The practical tools and conceptual frameworks used by human resource management professionals are constantly evolving. The second edition of A Guide to the Human Resource Body of Knowledge™ (HRBoK™), presented by HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®), is the go-to source for authoritative insights on the competencies required for HR mastery.

The practical tools and conceptual frameworks used by human resource management professionals are constantly evolving. The second edition of A Guide to the Human Resource Body of Knowledge™ (HRBoK™), presented by HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®), is the go-to source for authoritative insights on the competencies required for HR mastery.

This 624-page second edition of the HRBoK is a must have for both beginning and experienced HR practitioners, covering the full gamut of the most important skills, knowledge and methods that define HR best practices. Of course, if you’re preparing for an HRCI certification exam, this is a must read and, in fact, new HRCI exam applicants receive a free digital version of the guide.

But I would also recommend purchasing a hard copy (an $85 value) as a handy desk reference. The guide serves as a fantastic resource to help you identify areas for personal skill enrichment as an HR professional, and to assist you in benchmarking your organization’s HR practices against HRCI standards. Chocked full of information on the essential HR building blocks, HRBoK is a source of inspiration for new HR ideas and initiatives, every time you pick it up.

This volume, also available as an eBook for Kindle and other readers, covers six areas of HR functional expertise:

  • Business management and strategy
  • Workforce planning and employment
  • Human resource development
  • Compensation and benefits
  • Employee and labor relations
  • Risk management

Beginning with a game-changing forward on the future of HR from Dave Ulrich, the Rensis Likert Professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, and a partner at the RBL group, the book provides an in-depth look at the building blocks of HR, essential HR competencies and explains how HR knowledge, skills and abilities are factored into the HRCI suite of credentials such as the PHR® and SPHR®.

The chapter on business management and strategy focuses on HR as a business partner and that important connection serves as the backbone for the chapters on the other essential areas of HR expertise. Leading HR professionals must be capable of:

  • Applying general business principles.
  • Leading change efforts.
  • Acting as a strategic partner for all functions of HR.
  • Applying business strategies to operational activities.
  • Achieving international human resource management goals.
  • Integrating industry best practices and academic theories.
  • Orienting HR activities toward the bottom line.

HR, as Ulrich has said, is no longer just about HR anymore. The needs of the business and customers must be in lock step with the needs of our workforces. HR now plays an essential advisory role to help business create sustainable competitive advantages. That message is clear throughout the HRBoK.

The guide’s author, Sandra M. Reed, SPHR, says it best: "The HRBoK is the helix of human resources, a learning DNA shaped by past practices and evolving needs. Organic in nature, it reflects the need for an organization’s human resources to serve in a consulting role more often than a policing role. It underscores the value of fostering a performance culture across all company departments through thoughtful, systematic programs with clear targets and regular measurement.

Jayne Somes-Schloesser, SPHR, CAE, is Principal of SOS Association Solutions, providing strategic operations solutions to align human resource management strategies with business strategies and mission.

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