HR.com's 2025 Report Highlights Strategic Role of HR in Business Success

HR.com's recent publication, HR.com’s Future of HR Skills and Strategies 2025, sheds light on the transformative potential of HR when integrated into strategic business planning. The report highlights a significant correlation between organizations that prioritize HR strategies and their success in the industry, noting these entities are nearly seven times more likely to engage in strategic planning and view HR as an equal partner in these processes.

Despite the acknowledged importance of HR's strategic role, the report identifies substantial skill gaps among HR professionals. Key areas requiring attention include HR data and analytics, where only 34% of respondents feel proficient despite 80% recognizing its importance. Similarly, the ability to facilitate change and strategic thinking are areas where proficiency levels lag behind their perceived importance, with gaps of 42 and 41 points respectively.

Debbie McGrath, Chief Instigator and CEO of HR.com, emphasizes the urgency for HR leaders to address these gaps to lead transformational change within their organizations. The full report, available for free download, provides detailed strategies for HR professionals to develop these competencies, aiming to shift HR from an administrative function to a strategic leadership role. Additionally, the recording of the research webcast presentation, The HR Edge: Winning Strategies for a Disruptive Future, offers further insights into navigating the evolving landscape of HR.