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 ReportsManaging 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.
Original research and expert analysis on the issues shaping HR today, from workforce safety and emerging technology to DEI and employee well-being.
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.
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
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.
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.
How costly is substance abuse to organizations? Estimates vary, but all put the figure well into the tens of billions of dollars each year. Workers experiencing Substance Use Disorder (SUD) take nearly 50% more unscheduled days off, and their annual turnover rate is 44% higher than the general workforce, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
When you add lost productivity, higher healthcare costs, and the risk of workplace accidents, the financial impact becomes undeniable.
In 2023, an estimated 30 million Americans in the workforce were affected by SUD, and roughly 80% were full-time employees. Yet only about 21 million were in recovery.
An HRCI survey of hundreds of HR professionals in May found that more than 1 in 3 (41%) had occasionally observed substance use issues at work in the past year, and 7% reported seeing them frequently.
“Substance use disorder is an issue every organization will confront,” said Dr. Amy Dufrane, CEO of HRCI. “The question is whether we address it proactively with constructive policies—or allow crises to dictate our response. Smart employers will support employees on their journey to recovery. HR can and should lead the way.”
To help organizations take that proactive step, HRCI released Becoming Recovery Friendly: Implications and Best Practices Around Substance Use Disorder in the Workplace, a comprehensive report examining workplace attitudes toward SUD and offering practical steps HR professionals can take to create recovery friendly environments.
Download the report to learn more about workplace recovery strategies.
Workplace recovery has been a priority issue for HRCI for years. In partnership with the Global Recovery Initiatives Foundation, HRCI and other certified Recovery Friendly Workplaces joined a White House roundtable in September 2024 during National Recovery Month to discuss strategies for supporting recovery in the workplace.
In collaboration with Fors Marsh, a research firm focused on societal change, HRCI surveyed more than 1,500 HR professionals on employer policies and practices related to SUD. The resulting Recovery Friendly Workplace Survey 2025 revealed significant opportunities for improvement.
Key findings include:
Top needs cited by respondents included:
“Our study participants recognized the value of organizational support for individuals in recovery,” the report notes. “However, they also reported needs that are not currently met.”
Download the full report for detailed insights and best practices.
For many organizations, the next step is pursuing Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) certification—an initiative designed to help employers support workers in recovery and reduce the stigma surrounding SUD.
The National Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute, operated by the Global Recovery Initiatives Foundation, offers national certification for organizations that demonstrate commitment in key areas such as culture, hiring and retention, benefits, and education. Organizations operating within a single state can pursue state-level certification.
Since its rollout in late 2023, nearly two dozen organizations have earned certification, including Oracle, The Gorilla Glue Company, and nonprofits like Associated Builders and Contractors. HRCI was among the first to participate.
“We wanted to help lead the conversation on how employers can support recovery,” said Dufrane. “Becoming a Recovery Friendly Workplace is a powerful step forward, and we wanted to lead by example.”
Survey respondents identified lack of knowledge (64%) and misconceptions or stigma (50%) as the top barriers to certification.
“The biggest problems aren’t always about resources,” Dufrane noted. “They often stem from organizational culture. Truly understanding the nature of Substance Use Disorder and recovery—and their impact on your organization—is essential to building effective policies.”
Learn more about Recovery Friendly Workplace Certification and how your organization can get started.