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.
If you’ve been following this series of blogs on a comprehensive study of HR competencies, detailed in a new book, Victory Through Organization, you already know about the importance of adopting Credible Activist and Strategic Positioner skills to be an effective HR leader. A third essential HR skills, identified by the HR competency study (HRCS), HR competency, identified by the HR com, is the ability to navigate the many paradoxical challenges of today’s business environment.
In total, the HRCS has identified nine areas where HR can make the biggest impact – internally and externally. Perhaps none are as tricky as what the research identified as the Paradox Navigator competency.
Rare, as we all know, are business challenges with straight-forward solutions. Today’s businesses must now cope with dramatic contextual changes in the race to win.
Hello Workplace Ambiguity
Navigating paradox requires embracing new tensions and encouraging dialogue that encourages organizational agility. Instead of focusing on "either/or," paradoxical thinking emphasizes "and/also" thinking to keep pace with change. "When organizations have single solutions to problems, they do not fully address how to change," the researchers say.
The challenge, for HR, is to ensure that business teams know how to both diverge and converge, and when it’s the right time for convergence and divergence. HR must monitor discussions and help teams understand when few options are being considered or when more unity is needed to focus attention.
"We found, in our work that as Paradox Navigator, HR professionals may not be the most popular members of a business team because they raise difficult, but necessary issues. But their ability to navigate paradox is the most important skills for business results."
Becoming a Paradox Navigator
While not an innate trait, Paradox Navigator skills can be learned. The personal skills required including having the ability to:
Additionally, the researchers point out that Paradox Navigators must surround themselves with divergent thinkers, be clear in decision-making processes, be willing to try new things in the name of growth, and have the ability to zoom in and zoom out between vision and details.
"HR professionals and business leaders can acquire and improve these Paradox Navigation skills through extensive training, development and coaching. But, perhaps the most important prerequisite is to recognize the importance of navigating paradox in achieving business results. HR professionals who want to deliver real business value must become Paradox Navigators."
This is one of several HRCI blogs on the HRCS study and the new book, Victory Through Organization. Learn about the nine emerging competencies for HR, read more about how HR roles have become more complex, the need to HR must navigate paradox, how to be viewed as a "HR as Strategic Positioner" and the importance of HR and credible activism.