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.
Vacations aren’t just a nice perk to offer your employees — they’re actually essential to employee health and productivity. No matter how much your employees love their jobs, stress from overwork can affect performance. Unfortunately, nearly half of Americans don’t take advantage of their vacation days.
Taking time off produces several benefits for your employees. It can reduce stress, improve sleep and decrease burnout. Employees aren’t the only winners. When your employees take time off to relax, spend time with family and take care of themselves, everyone in the organization wins.
Here are three benefits of offering unlimited vacation time to your employees.
The ability to take time paid time off whenever it’s needed is a huge benefit that can also be a critical differentiator for your organization. In fact, one study found that 72% of employees are interested in paid time off. “An unlimited PTO policy invites new hires,” says Martin Luenendonk, co-founder of Cleverism. Encouraging employees to take time to unwind is critical to attracting and retaining employees.
Typically, unlimited PTO doesn’t translate to your employees jetting off to the beach for weeks at a time. Prospective employees are looking for organizations that offer flexible time off for when needs arise, says Emma Brudner, director of people operations at Lola.com. “The peace of mind that an unlimited vacation policy affords is huge for attracting and retaining top talent,” says Brudner.
The administrative tasks surrounding time off can be tedious and time-consuming. Brudner points out that an unlimited PTO policy has the collateral benefit of eliminating the need for administrative PTO tracking, giving HR more time to work with the C-suite on more valuable strategic initiatives.
Unlimited vacation policies also encourage employees to pace their own work. This results in a better working environment and helps employees identify when they can best take advantage of time off. An unlimited PTO policy can discourage employees from saving vacation days and spending all of their available days at the end of the year, Luenendonk said. This can leave many companies understaffed in the final quarter of the year.
Finding the right balance between work and home life is essential to employee productivity. “Flexible PTO helps employees feel comfortable and productive at work because they can manage time for their family and personal life more efficiently,” Luenendonk said. Taking the stress and uncertainty out of time management will help your employees identify and regulate their individual needs.
“Typically, people will be more committed to their jobs when they don't feel nickel-and-dimed with time off,” Brudne said. Empower your employees by giving them the option to take an afternoon off for necessities without jeopardizing their family vacation. Employees who are invested in your company will not take advantage of your generosity, Luenendonk said. They know the value of their work and are capable of regulating themselves and taking time off for their own well-being so they can come to work refreshed.