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.
HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) made three important announcements at the recent SHRM 2017 Annual Conference & Exposition held in New Orleans. HRCI announced a new reinstatement program for qualifying HR professionals, changes to the 2018 SPHRi Exam Content Outline, and accreditation of its international credentials.
Here’s what you need to know:
HRCI announced that HR professionals with credentials that expired between May 1, 2013, and May 31, 2017, may be able to participate in the HRCI Certification Reinstatement Program. The program is a response to HR practitioners who indicated that they mistakenly let their HRCI certifications expire because they believed they were getting their HRCI credentials recertified, converted or transferred when SHRM announced its own certification program in May 2014.
This is a one-time-only opportunity for those eligible for reinstatement. The program begins July 1, 2017, and will conclude June 30, 2018.
For reinstatement, eligible professionals must submit at least 60 credits, affirm that they are currently practicing as HR professionals and submit a $500 fee. Credit activities
must have been earned between July 1, 2014, and June 30, 2017, and may include seminars and self-directed learning, as well as professionals and on-the-job achievements.
"The most important step for those who are seeking reinstatement is to visit the HR Certification Reinstatement Program webpage and provide current contact information, which may have changed," urges Dania Eter, MBA, Chief Credentialing and Products Portfolio Officer for HRCI. "HRCI will proactively respond to provide more information about eligibility, account setup and next steps for completing the reinstatement program."
Read more about the HRCI reinstatement announcement.
HRCI now has six accredited, professional-level HR certifications as part of its suite of credentials for HR professionals. The Professional in Human Resources – International™ (PHRi™) and the Senior Professional in Human Resources – International™ (SPHRi™) have received accreditation from the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). NCCA is recognized as a top authority on certification accreditation, providing third-party validation that HRCI credentials validly demonstrate various levels of practice-driven competency in the HR field.
HRCI is the only organization with nationally recognized NCCA accreditation of HR credentials.
"HRCI remains committed to the highest certification standards by seeking and maintaining accreditation from the NCCA," Eter says. "The evaluation leading up to accreditation is rigorous, and includes an extensive organizational review of not only the certification exams, but also the organization’s processes, governing body, bylaws, ethics, financial stability, policy and procedures, including confidentiality, security and much more."
Other NCCA-accredited HR certifications from HRCI include the Professional in Human Resources® (PHR®), the Professional in Human Resources – California® (PHRca®), the Senior Professional in Human Resources® (SPHR®) and the Global Professional in Human Resources® (GPHR®).
Read more about the accreditation of HRCI international HR certifications.
The framework for the 2018 SPHRi credential, HRCI announced, will embrace more emphasis on HR analytics and HR as an international business driver. Changes, which are highlighted in the 2018 SPHRi Certification Exam Content Outline, were made to better align with current international HR practices.
The SPHRi exam content changes will go into effect for certification candidates taking the exam on or after January 1, 2018.
HRCI periodically conducts extensive practice analyses to ensure that certification candidates are tested on current HR best practices, workforce trends and competencies. The SPHRi analysis involved HR professionals from around the world.
Read more about the changes to the SPHRi exam.