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 U.S. District Court has blocked the joint employer rule issued by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) that was scheduled to take effect on March 11th. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has issued performance results for the previous fiscal year that ended on September 30, 2023. A Congressional Review Act resolution was introduced in both Houses of Congress to overturn the independent contractor rule issued by the Department of Labor (DOL) that became effective on March 11th. President Biden has issued an Executive Order designed to increase the use of registered apprenticeship programs in the federal government and by those who receive federal grants and contracts.
NLRB Joint Employer Rule Blocked – The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas has blocked the joint employer rule issued by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). In vacating the rule, the District Court judge in the case of Chamber of Commerce of the United States v. National Labor Relations Board concluded that enforcement of the rule would be contrary to law and the rule was “arbitrary and capricious.” In announcing that the NLRB is reviewing the decision and considering next steps in the case, NLRB chair Lauren McFerran stated, “The District Court’s decision to vacate the Board’s rule is a disappointing setback but is not the last word on our efforts to return our joint-employer standard to the common law principles that have been endorsed by other courts.”
EEOC Releases Performance Data – The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reported its performance results during fiscal year (FY) 2023, which ran from October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023. The EEOC recovered $665 million for victims of discrimination, which is a 29.5% increase over the previous fiscal year. The EEOC noted that it received 81,055 new discrimination charges, 233,704 inquiries in field offices, more than 522,000 calls from the public through the agency contact center, and over 86,000 emails. In addition, the EEOC filed 143 new lawsuits. EEOC Chair Charlotte Burrows stated, “For nearly six decades, the EEOC has been entrusted with the clear mission of preventing and remedying discrimination in our nation's workplaces. That legacy and our ongoing work are vitally important as we rebuild the economy to work for everyone and fulfill our nation's promise of equal justice for all.”
Resolution Introduced Overturning Independent Contractor Rule – A Congressional Review Act resolution was introduced (S.J. Res. 63, H.J. Res. 116 ) to overturn the independent contractor rule issued by the Department of Labor (DOL) that became final on March 11th. The primary sponsors are Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions and Representative Kevin Kiley (R-CA), chairman of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. There are numerous Senate and House cosponsors.
Under the Congressional Review Act, Congress has 60 days from the day in which it receives the rule to introduce a resolution of disapproval. If approved by both the Senate and House of Representatives, the president can either sign it or veto it and if vetoed, it requires a two-thirds vote in each chamber to override a veto. There is also litigation pending challenging the independent contractor rule.
The DOL rule revises how to determine whether an individual is an employee or independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The final rule rescinds a previous independent contractor rule that was issued on January 7, 2021. The final rule provides that workers would not be considered as independent contractors if they are, as a matter of economic reality, economically dependent on an employer for work. The final rule identifies six factors that should be used to determine employee or independent contractor status under the FLSA.
Executive Order Expands Use of Registered Apprenticeship Programs – President Biden issued an Executive Order designed to increase the use of registered apprenticeship programs in the federal government and to encourage federal agencies to provide preferences on projects to recipients that hire individuals who have participated in registered apprenticeship programs. The Executive Order states, “Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has invested more than $440 million to expand the capacity of the Registered Apprenticeship system, supporting the education and training needs of more than 1 million apprentices across the country.”
The Executive Order directs the Office of Personnel Management, Department of Labor and other federal agencies to develop ways in which pathways can be established to federal government employment of those who have completed registered apprenticeship programs. Federal agencies need to identify where they could include requirements or incentives for grant recipients or contractors to hire workers who participated in registered apprenticeship programs. The Executive Order also reestablishes labor management forums in the federal government that are designed for unions and management to work together to improve their workplaces.
Neil Reichenberg is the former executive director of the International Public Management Association for Human Resources. He is an attorney, a frequent writer and speaker on public policy and human resource issues and was an adjunct faculty member at George Mason University. For questions or additional information, contact Reichenberg at neilreichenberg@yahoo.com.