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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 Reports
Featured Research

Managing the Changing Workplace: A Framework for HR

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.

Remote working conference call
Did You Know?
59%
Workplace Relationship Policies
say their company does not enforce policies prohibiting romantic relationships between employees
Source: HRCI Alchemizing HR poll, January 2025
89%
Leadership Overreach
say leaders take on problems that should belong to someone else
Source: HRCI Alchemizing HR webinar poll, April 2026
55%
Political Discussions at Work
of HR professionals are somewhat, minimally, or not at all prepared to handle politically-charged discussions at work
Source: HRCI Report — Managing Political Polarization in the Workplace, 2025
Recent Reports

Original research and expert analysis on the issues shaping HR today, from workforce safety and emerging technology to DEI and employee well-being.

The Secret Ingredients of Workplace Fulfillment

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.

The Vital Role of Professional Development

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.

Small Conflicts Don't Stay Small

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.

Extreme Weather and the Workplace

From rising absenteeism to safety risks, HRCI research reveals how extreme weather is reshaping workforce management and what HR can do now.

The State of HR

The 2026 State of HR Report

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 Report

State of HR Spotlight Reports

Safety, Polarization, and Stress

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 and Their Outlook for HR

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.

HR Professionals and Technological Change

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.

Attitudes Toward Remote Work

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.

Professionals Problem Solving

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. 

 

Research Archive

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.

 

Ai Superpower
Strengthening AI Skills in HR

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.

Empowering the Intelligent Workplace

Explore how HR can turn AI adoption into a strategic advantage—balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.

Becoming Recovery-Friendly

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.

Diversity Initiatives in 2025

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.

Managing Political Polarization in the Workplace

This report provides critical insights and actionable strategies for HR leaders to foster a more harmonious and productive work environment. 

Webinar online learning

Beyond the Data

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.

 

HR Leads Business Blog

News and perspectives on the issues driving the HR profession forward.

Jul 8, 2025, 21:00 PM by The HRCI Team

Revolutionizing HR: How HRCI CHAT Transforms HR Workflows with AI

HRCI CHAT is revolutionizing HR workflows with AI-powered assistance, available 24/7. Free for HRCI account holders, this tool simplifies tasks allowing HR professionals to concentrate on strategic leadership. Explore how HRCI CHAT enhances productivity and transforms HR operations.

The Time Crunch in Human Resources 

In the fast-paced world of human resources, time is of the essence. With HR professionals reportedly spending over half of their work week on administrative tasks, according to Deloitte, the need for efficient solutions has never been more pressing. 

Introducing HRCI CHAT 

Enter HRCI CHAT, an innovative AI-powered assistant designed to reshape the HR landscape by offering round-the-clock support tailored exclusively to HR needs. Launched by HRCI, a leader in credentialing and learning for HR professionals, HRCI CHAT is poised to free up valuable time for HR teams, allowing them to shift their focus from routine tasks to strategic leadership. This new virtual assistant, offered for free to HRCI account holders, is here to make high-impact work a reality. 

Key Features of HRCI CHAT 

What exactly can HRCI CHAT do? Its capabilities are both broad and impressive, covering key HR functions: 

  • Talent Acquisition: Streamlines the creation of job descriptions, structured interview guides, and offer letters. 

  • Employee Development: Assists in building personalized growth plans and feedback templates, and even helps craft training communications. 

  • Compliance Assistance: Simplifies compliance by summarizing labor laws and drafting compliant policies and procedures. 

  • Strategic Forecasting: Models potential business scenarios to inform better workforce planning and decision-making. 

  • Data Analysis & Insights: Offers deep dives into compensation, engagement, turnover, and more. 

  • Reporting Capabilities: Generates polished, leadership-ready reports effortlessly. 

Dr. Amy Dufrane, SPHR, CAE, and CEO of HRCI, highlights the resourcefulness of this tool, noting, “In today’s world, time is in short supply for busy HR professionals. Given myriad other factors, from fluctuating hiring demands to a rapidly evolving legislative climate, there’s an increased need for up-to-date resources. With the introduction of HRCI CHAT, we’re changing how HR works—delivering instant support, smarter solutions and the ability to focus on what matters: people.”   

Explore HRCI CHAT Today 

For HR professionals eager to regain control of their time and enhance their strategic role, HRCI CHAT is a game-changing resource. Ready to explore this complimentary tool? Visit HRCI CHAT to learn more and see how it can transform your HR processes today. 

 

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