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.
Amad Rashad Thompson is dedicated to valuing and empowering people to reach their full potential. A certified talent management expert, global trainer, speaker, and behavioral analyst, he collaborates with international organizations to elevate best practices in workplace culture, talent development, and performance management.
1. How has your HRCI certification impacted your HR career and what inspired you to pursue it? Wow! My HRCI certification has truly served as a career catalyst! When I was a full-time employee, organizations would only entertain candidates with an HR certification, and obtaining my PHRi truly established me as a professional human resource practitioner and set me apart from the competition.
Now as a full-time entrepreneur, my clients and potential clients trust my consulting abilities even more because they trust that the knowledge, insights, best practices, and strategies I suggest or recommend come from a sound and trusted source recognized the world over.
2. In your opinion, what is the most significant benefit of obtaining an HRCI certification and how has it helped you in your career? The most significant benefit is that a certification from HRCI is recognized and respected globally, and when I say globally, I mean globally. Obtaining my PHRi demonstrates to the world that I am equipped with sound principles to consult, lead, and direct on global HR issues in any market and across cultures. This positions me as a trusted business partner for organizations all over the world.
3. As a seasoned HRCI certification holder, what advice would you give to those considering this certification? Stop considering and get started already! The world around you is changing rapidly, and the longer you take to equip yourself and position yourself as an authority in HR, the more opportunities you will lose.
Additionally, do your research on the certification that best suits you and your career aspirations. Don’t get certified just for certification sake. Truly assess your abilities, your gaps, your opportunities, and select the best option for you.
4. Who or what has been the biggest influence on your HR career and how have they helped shape your professional journey? My grandmother, believe it or not! She has been an entrepreneur her entire life, and she taught me the value of operating in excellence and maintaining a standard of excellence. She instilled in me the importance of leading with care, treating people with decency, and always honoring the opportunities God gave me by preparing myself for them.
5. Can you share any recent professional achievements or new developments in your HR career that you are particularly proud of? Not in my HR career specifically, but a huge milestone I achieved is writing and publishing my first book! “SHYFT into FOKUS; A Guide to Living a Purposeful Life” is a labor of love, and a gift to the Kingdom of God. I want people to realize that they are magical, filled with potential, and that no matter their circumstance, if they have faith, work hard, and never stay stagnant, they can achieve anything!
6. What are your future career goals and how do you plan to continue growing and developing as an HR professional? I want to continue impacting the world through my company (Astute Talent Management) by helping curate and implement sound, engaging, people-centered HR and leadership strategies to help organizations succeed. I have an ambitious goal of empowering 1 million leaders, and I work tirelessly every day to achieve that goal. I plan to obtain one more certification from HRCI (the GPHR). Additionally, every year I invest in myself by attending at least 2 professional development conferences, and I am always on a webinar or listening to a podcast to keep learning and growing.
7. Lifelong learning is critical in the HR field as the modern workplace is continually changing. How does HRCI recertification play a role in ensuring you stay relevant and impactful in your career? Recertification is an absolute blessing! To be afforded the opportunity to maintain my certification and not have to re-test is wonderful! Additionally, recertifying shows my clients and potential clients that I take my development seriously, so they can trust me with theirs.
8. Looking ahead, what do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the HR industry in the coming years? I think the biggest challenge facing our community is the HR practitioners playing it small and playing it safe. I look forward to the day when HR professionals around the world embrace their humanity and marry that with their tenacity and experience to show the world just who HR really is!
Another big challenge in our industry is that many are afraid to embrace and lead agility in our organizations. Ladies and gentlemen, fellow HR superheroes—you have a responsibility and the ability to lead your organizations into the future. Embrace technology, speak the language of your stakeholders, get to know and apply the data, and get comfortable being uncomfortable!
Want to learn more about Amad and the power of an HRCI certification? Watch now.