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.
Human resource management studies have certainly changed since I first began in this field in the 80s. Today, HR students face new challenges that no other generation has had to face and they need to be more prepared than ever. The typical skills taught in even the best institutions worldwide won't be enough if students don't begin now to know themselves and stand out.
The following 5 lessons are my grandfatherly advice to students of HR everywhere as they begin what I hope will be exciting and fulfilling careers in this wonderful field:
Lesson 1: Recognize Your Passions. Ponder on your strengths, passions and value. Learn what work problems you want to solve. Work should not be a four-letter word and drudgery, but an opportunity to solve problems that matter to you. You might find out if HR is your passion by asking if you are interested in helping people grow and organizations succeed? In your quiet and private moments, do you think about building better organizations that will serve people? I have been told by my psychologist wife that I have a unique version of OCD — Organization Compulsive Disorder. I enjoy reengineering organizations I visit, from restaurants to hotels to churches to retail stores and so forth. Ask yourself, what do you enjoy?
Lesson 2: Get Real. Aspirations should exceed resources but not too much. In my early days I aspired to be a professional basketball player, but I quickly learned that this was an unreal aspiration. I can enjoy basketball as a fan more than a player. In HR, you should ask if you have the skills for doing HR work: Are you able to master the insights of the HR profession? Are you able to work well with others? Are you able to lead from behind (versus leading from the front)?
Lesson 3: Match Your Skills to Your Company. As you select the organization where you will work, have you matched your personal identity to the company brand? A newly graduated student excitedly called me and said she had job offers at Google and Amazon and wanted my counsel. I quickly said, “Take one! Get a job and move on!" She laughed, then asked, "Which one?" My counsel was to look at her personal strengths and passions and to take the job that best fits her personal identity. Amazon’s success comes from rigorous discipline and getting products delivered on time. Google’s success is from innovation and tolerance of ambiguity. After a day of thinking, she took the Amazon job because she felt the structured environment would work better for her.
Lesson 4: Get Started With Small and Simple Successes. When you start in your new company, be a diligent observer. Look for what matters, what work needs to be done, who has influence and where you can add unique value. Find a simple (often smallish) project that you can focus on and deliver. Do it well.
Lesson 5: Build Relationships. Ironically, those who give more to philanthropy make more after they give than before. Create an identity and spirit of helping others succeed. This means finding a network of mentors who can guide you and who you can support; it means being a good peer to your teammates; and it means quietly doing your work with excellence.
As I spend much of my time with you—our next generation of HR (and other) professionals—I'm extremely encouraged. Resources have never been more available and opportunity for growth has never been accessible. So get after it and find your path!
Dave Ulrich is a Rensis Likert Professor at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. He is also a Partner of the The RBL Group.