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 ReportsRecovery 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.
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Original research and expert analysis on the issues shaping HR today, from workforce safety and emerging technology to DEI and employee well-being.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 ReportState of HR Spotlight Reports
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
From rising absenteeism to safety risks, HRCI research reveals how extreme weather is reshaping workforce management and what HR can do now.
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.
Explore how HR can turn AI adoption into a strategic advantage—balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.
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.
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.
This report provides critical insights and actionable strategies for HR leaders to foster a more harmonious and productive work environment.
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.
News and perspectives on the issues driving the HR profession forward.
A swiftly evolving workplace requires workforce agility, especially for HR. Your practice touches every aspect of work, so you have to be agile to keep yourself and your organization from collapsing under the weight of constant change. Understanding HR’s role at every point and location of your business is essential, and earning multiple certifications can help you do that.
“Holding multiple certifications at the same time shows a trajectory of commitment to HR practice,” says JD Nomdedeu, HRCI’s director of international business development and partnerships. That commitment translates to business growth and success.
Here’s how multiple certifications can help you and your HR practice stand out from the crowd.
HR is a diverse profession, covering responsibilities as specific as payroll and as vast as global talent acquisition strategy. Multiple certifications demonstrate which areas you are most competent. “Just because someone says, ‘I work in HR,’ doesn't mean that they know what's happening across the spectrum of HR practice,” Nomdedeu says. Holding multiple certifications demonstrates your mastery of HR, he says, from operations to strategy.
The aPHR™, for example, focuses on legal compliance. It offers a broad understanding of HR’s range for new practitioners and managers. The SPHR™, on the other hand, is more focused on strategy. It supports understanding business needs and the development of HR leaders.
Maintaining each certification requires continuing education in the area it represents. “Active credentials are proof of expanding knowledge,” Nomdedeu says. The continuing education requirement of each certification expands on a specific set of competencies, he suggests, giving you the knowledge you need to support comprehensive business growth.
In this sense, additional certifications can be more beneficial for your practice than degrees. A master’s degree has a definite end, whereas certification requires continuous learning to maintain. “Professional development on a regular basis is more valuable,” Nomdedeu says. “It really counts more than just getting another degree.” Multiple certifications keep you up-to-date across the HR spectrum, giving you the ability to pivot in today’s turbulent work environment.
The time and resources you spend obtaining and retaining multiple certifications demonstrates your commitment to HR and the people and organization you serve. “The commitment of HR practitioners to the profession takes them through different roles and stages of their professional development,” Nomdedeu says. HR is vital to an organization’s success, and holding multiple certifications proves that you aren’t just waiting for change to rock your company’s boat — you’re ready to face it head-on.
Adding the GPHR™, for example, shows that you’re anticipating business changes as the economy expands globally. “The GPHR supports business operations according to international standards,” Nomdedeu says. For companies looking to go global, this is a valuable asset. Combined with international credentials (aPHRi, PHRi or SPHRi™), the GPHR supports your practice in other countries and regions of the world.