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.
The world has drastically changed since the COVID-19 pandemic, and so has the role of HR. According to a recent survey conducted by HRCI and MindEdge Learning, HR seeks to broaden its scope in the new post-pandemic "normal," aspiring for a more significant role in business operations.
Findings from the survey, which included feedback from 1,044 HRCI-certified human resources professionals, reveal that an overwhelming 88% of respondents believe HR should take on a more active role in business operations. Only a small minority (8%) feel HR should continue focusing solely on traditional employee-related tasks.
This desire for an expanded role possibly stems from a perception gap with organizational leaders, as more than 40% of respondents feel that leaders view HR as fulfilling a crucial but limited function. This perspective could contribute to the challenges HR departments face, such as budget constraints and understaffing concerns.
"Our findings highlight a dynamic shift toward continuous learning rather than HR certification alone," said David Meginley, aPHR, GPHR, Chief Revenue & Learning Officer at HRCI. "Professionals are taking a more expansive approach to education and skill enhancement, which is key to ensuring that HR has a place in strategic organizational development."
The survey highlighted variances between sectors. HR professionals in the Technology sector report feeling underfunded and understaffed, while those in Financial Services generally perceive adequate support and believe HR is seen as integral to organizational success. These sectoral differences reflect diverse experiences and expectations for HR professionals post-COVID.
Despite these challenges, there's growing optimism among HR professionals regarding the U.S. economy's resilience and their organizations' financial health. Over half of survey participants express confidence in the national economy, and a more significant proportion (60%) are optimistic about their organizations meeting revenue goals. This optimism is particularly pronounced in the Financial Services sector, with a notable 75% expressing confidence in revenue growth.
HR professionals face the dual challenge of retaining talent and attracting new employees. These concerns are especially pressing in sectors like Healthcare, Retail, and Manufacturing. Alongside these recruitment challenges, employee burnout continues to be a prominent issue, particularly in the Technology and Education sectors.
A significant 74% of HR professionals acknowledge an increase in employee burnout in their organizations, underscoring the need for effective strategies to maintain workforce well-being in the face of heightened workloads and changing work dynamics.
Amid these challenges, HR has successfully navigated the shift to new workplace norms. More than half of the respondents report a return to in-person work, while others have embraced remote or hybrid models. Interestingly, 86% of those supporting remote or hybrid work believe these arrangements will remain permanent, highlighting the enduring impact of the pandemic on workplace arrangements.
"Four years after the onset of the pandemic, American businesses have settled on a new mix of work arrangements—mostly in-person in some sectors of the economy, mostly remote or hybrid in others," said Hugo Lallo, chief of technology and staff for MindEdge Learning. "HR professionals have risen to the challenge and adapted to this New Normal with relative ease.”
Remote work has introduced its own set of challenges, but managing these has not emerged as a primary concern, indicating a successful adaptation by HR professionals to new work formats.
Considering the evolving challenges and strategic demands placed on HR practitioners, a promising trend has emerged from the survey: a strong interest in continuous learning and the acquisition of specialized HR certifications. Over four-fifths of respondents express interest in earning certificates in areas such as HR Leadership, highlighting a shift toward enhancing skills beyond traditional HR roles.
Survey respondents have identified pressing concerns, including employee retention, talent acquisition, and managing burnout. Addressing these complex issues requires a sophisticated set of skills and a commitment to ongoing education. As HR professionals navigate these challenges, targeted learning opportunities become essential.
The HRCI Learning Center offers a wealth of courses designed to meet both immediate and long-term needs, providing HR teams with the tools to manage their evolving roles adeptly. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, HR professionals can equip themselves to contribute more strategically to their organizations, driving sustainable growth and adaptation in the post-COVID landscape.
Four years on from the pandemic's start, HR professionals have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, striving for greater recognition and responsibility within their organizations. As HR practitioners continue to expand their role, continuous learning and strategic involvement in business operations will be crucial for HR to solidify its place as an indispensable part of organizational growth and adaptation in the post-COVID world.