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.
Recently, HR Certification Institute (HRCI) announced that all seven of its credentials are now fully accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). NCCA’s Standards for the Accreditation of Certification Programs, like the certifications that HR professionals earn from HRCI, are among the most rigorous, respected and recognized accreditation standards.
Only HRCI certifications have earned the NCCA mark of excellence for all seven of its HR credentials. NCCA provides third-party recognition that the credentials you earn from HRCI are valid and of the highest quality. That means you can be sure your credentials adhere to rigorous standards for governance, ethics, responsibility to HR professionals, the examination process and recertification via continuing education requirements.
Why You Should Care about Accreditation
Many professions rely on accredited certification or credentialing programs to help designate those with proven rigor and integrity. This benefits the practitioner, employers and the public at large – demonstrating that a person is qualified, knowledgeable and skilled for chosen job roles. HR is one of those fields, and HRCI remains the most trusted and recognized source of HR credentials.
In fact, HRCI credentials are specified in 95 percent of online HR job postings that require or recommend HR certification.
Choosing a fully accredited certification organization is not unlike seeking an accredited university for an advanced degree or choosing only a licensed health care professional to perform medical procedures. Without a government or private body to enforce credentialing standards, it would be difficult to know whether a certification can be trusted or not. Keep in mind that non-accredited programs do exist. NCCA accreditation is your protection from choosing a "less-than-quality" certification program, as noted by Mickie S. Rops, CAE, in her white paper that explains how the world of certification and accreditation works.
Get Involved with HRCI
Accreditation from NCCA also verifies that HRCI certifications are never static. As the HR profession evolves, HRCI continually updates exams and requirements to match the HR field of practice.
In 2017, for example, HRCI announced revisions to the exam content outlines for the Professional in Human Resources – International™ (PHRi™) and the Senior Professional in Human Resources – International™ (SPHRi™). PHRi changes reflect the need for enhanced technology and program development competencies for an HR manager responsible for a single international, non-U.S. setting. SPHRi changes reflect a greater emphasis on measurement, analytical thinking and international HR initiatives linked more closely with external as well as internal business outcomes.
Each year, hundreds of HR professionals volunteer their time and knowledge as experts to ensure emerging innovations and best practices are reflected in HRCI certification programs. I encourage all levels of HR practice to get involved in helping HRCI maintain its standard of rigor for more than 40 years.
If you’d like to become an HRCI subject matter expert and participate in the ongoing development of an HRCI certification, please apply online.
Never Stop Learning: Special Promotion
If you’re an HR professional who has not yet enjoyed the benefits of HRCI certification, or you’re looking to break into the HR profession be earning the aPHR, the months of August and September are the perfect time to apply and begin preparing.
Save $70 when you apply by using the Back to School promotion code. This limited-time offer ends on September 30, 2017, so it’s important to act today!