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.
Sgt. 1st Class Ashley Lowery always knew she wanted to pursue a career in human resources, and her time in the Army set her on the path toward her dream job.
“I always wanted to have a career in human resources,” Lowery says. “I love helping people and being a steward of my profession.” And in her current role as a military pay instructor (IPPS-A MilPay MTT), Lowery does just that. She loves connecting with and training other HR professionals in the military regularly.
Certification has played a key role in her professional development so far, and as her career progresses, Lowery is confident that HRCI® certification is opening even more doors for her.
When COVID-19 suspended travel for Lowery's military pay instructor position, she decided to invest her extra time in certification. Although she was anxious about taking the exams because she'd heard how tough they were, she committed to studying — and succeeding. In just a year's time, Lowery earned the Professional in Human Resources® (PHR®) and the Senior Professional in Human Resources® (SPHR®), and she is preparing to take the Global Professional in Human Resources® (GPHR®).
Lowery has enjoyed studying and learning about HR, as well as the satisfaction that comes with earning certifications, and encourages other military HR personnel to apply. For the Army specifically, Lowery recommends looking into ArmyIgnitED, which provides assistance with tuition and credentialing costs. "If you use ArmyIgnitED, you don't have to have your command sign off on it," Lowery says. "You can just go apply for it."
Certification has already enriched Lowery’s military career. The Army recently modified their promotions process to evaluate and rank staff sergeants and above based on performance. The order of merit list (OML) identifies top performers for training, specialized assignments and other opportunities.
Lowery recently went through the evaluation process herself, and she placed in the top 10 percent of all HR professionals in the Army at the same rank. "Having one of HRCI's certifications is looked at very favorably by evaluation board members for promotion," Lowery says. "I strongly feel that having the PHR helped me place in the top percentage."
Lowery intends to take full advantage of certifications to enrich her career in the Army. She hopes that having the GPHR will set her up for being stationed overseas. For now, Lowery, her husband (himself retired from an Army HR career) and their three children are preparing for their move to Lowery’s next position in Fort Meade, Md.
By earning certifications 15 years into her career instead of waiting closer to retirement, Lowery is setting herself up for a successful HR career after her military tenure. “Do not wait till the last minute to get HR certification, because it's definitely going to set you apart,” Lowery says. By the time she retires (in about five years), Lowery believes her certifications and ongoing education will prepare her for an HR career in the civilian sector, possibly in talent strategy or acquisition.
“I've gotten more accomplished in the last 12 months than I have in a very long time,” Lowery says. “I've come a long way compared to where I thought I was going to be.”