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.
Companies and organizations succeed when they can find workers with strong knowledge and skill sets. But it’s become increasingly clear that in a tight labor market, those workers are not always easy to come by.
Increasingly, organizations are allocating resources to “upskill” workers with specialized training and education, and workers are appreciating the value of new credentials and knowledge.
HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) has recognized the need for flexible and on-demand ways for workers to supercharge their careers. Its new HRCI upSkill® offering is a suite of on-demand learning on specific topics facing HR and non-HR professionals.
The Aspen Institute, which championed the UpSkill America initiative through its Economic Opportunities Program, observes that the upskilling movement is gaining momentum. The nonprofit think tank, which authored the Upskilling Playbook for Employers in 2017, says there has been a flurry of new companies including Lyft, Starbucks and Brinker International offering programs to train and develop workers, or offering free tuition or discounts.
“Workers are increasingly seeking out and succeeding with upskilling programs,” the Aspen Institute says. “And businesses and investors are recognizing upskilling’s importance. These are encouraging signs that the upskilling movement is gaining, and will continue to gain, momentum in the months and years to come.”
This comes at a time when employers continue to search for qualified talent in a tight labor market.
A June 2018 survey conducted by British recruiting consultancy Robert Half notes that 49 percent of businesses are struggling to find staff with the right skills. About one-fifth say they have given up trying to find candidates with ideal technical skills, and instead hire promising candidates and upskill them on the job.
On the flipside, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation writes that worker layoffs are always a possibility in an age when many tasks can be carried out by automation and artificial intelligence. Thus, the Foundation calls for a wider use of skills credentialing and training and development programs led by industry leaders.
Employees, too, can add knowledge and skills to expand their value to employers.
In the HR profession, it’s clear that employers value HRCI credentials. Over the years, tens of thousands of HR workers have successfully earned the aPHRTM, PHR®, SPHR® designations, just 3 of the 8 credentials HRCI offers.
But what if you are unsure that you have the time and energy to pursue a higher degree or advanced credential? The Productivity Commission in Australia notes that older workers, in particular, have many commitments that make it hard for them to take on a major upskilling effort.
“These workers may need longer time or self-paced courses that use multiple instructional methods to aid learning,” the commission says. “Moreover, older workers perform better in training that raises their existing skills than in new fields.”
Perhaps more bite-sized and on-demand options are part of the solution. Now, workers can boost their career potential further through HRCI upSkill. The first offering, HRCI Workforce Analytics upSkill, which emphasizes how to use people workforce data to make better management and business decisions, is available now.