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.
Frank González, Ph.D., PHR, is a leader in the DEIB space, utilizing 20 years of experience as a classroom facilitator, diversity professional, and instructional designer. He specializes in creating sustainable balance for stakeholders and employees through inclusion and diversity, employee engagement, and training, and is dedicated to influencing altruistic decision-making and process improvements that align with mission, strategy, culture, and organizational attunement. Dr. Gonzalez currently serves as Director, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Business Partner at Taco Bell.
I was in workplace meetings where HR colleagues consistently led conversations with best practices, approachability, and practicality for leaders they supported. I heard from colleagues about the value a recognized certification provides HR professionals, which led me to HRCI time and time again. HRCI differentiated itself for me with the continuous learnings and recertification process that ensure HR professionals adapt to the most updated strategies. I self-studied the HRCI HRBoK and certified in 2019 with intentions to maintain certification so I can continue being a strategic partner to the business.
A global cohort of HR professionals that encourages and motivates each other via various live and virtual channels. The benefit is a genuine global HR community dedicated to helping people.
In addition to earning my PHR certification from HRCI, the HRCInsights and Alchemizing HR webinars have been really beneficial as they have increased my exposure to industry experts while building community with other HR professionals. Ongoing learning is crucial in HR, so I find that attending these particular webinars are impactful.
Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EIB) evolves and adapts to human experiences. HRCI provides webinars and topics on various dimensions of diversity (seen and unseen). My HRCI certification keeps me updated with global strategies, models, and learnings from industry experts.
Create connections for your planned career trajectory: Connections before, during, and after your certification process with other HR professionals driven by similar curiosities and enthusiasm. This will enable your intrinsic motivations while ensuring the certification aligns with your plans and fosters lifelong partnerships making you the best partner possible for those you support.
In today’s climate, EI&B can feel like a complex and rapidly evolving landscape, with challenges arising from political, social, and economic pressures. These challenges require adaptive strategies and a deep understanding of the organizational and external environment to effectively integrate and sustain EI&B initiatives.
Data and analytics collected from a range of internal and third-party sources are critical to identify gaps, measure progress, and make informed decisions in driving meaningful change. My team has found success by setting clear KPIs, continuously collecting data, assessing and auditing our practices, and reporting on progress on a regular cadence.
I work for a brand built on breaking antiquated processes and experiences. Taco Bell's approach to EI&B is an evolution with no end in sight. The critical key is bringing people along in understanding the why and the how and by ensuring EI&B is woven into business objectives and brand strategy across the entire organization.
I am fortunate to work for a brand that cares, that truly wants to create an inclusive culture where everyone feels like they belong while enabling #LiveMás. I’m looking forward to working with teams across our organization to continue implementing equitable strategic initiatives across our people and business practices to drive stronger inclusive outcomes within the company and beyond.
Continuous learning and ensuring best practices for our brand, employees, and customers are ongoing priorities. I am enthused to explore and certify with HRCI in the SPHR and/or GPHR.