The landscape of human resources is undergoing a significant shift in 2025, with performance management emerging as the foremost priority for organizations, according to the latest research study, Workplace Insights: Elevating Employee Experience and Future-Proofing Performance. This study, conducted by Accurate and HR.com’s Research Institute, reveals that 40% of organizations are now focusing on performance management, followed by leadership development (28%) and employee experience (25%).
The findings underscore the critical role of performance management in driving organizational success. Companies with robust performance management processes are five times more likely to report above-average financial performance and twice as likely to see above-average employee performance. Despite these benefits, leadership challenges persist, with only 26% of HR professionals believing their employees feel well-led and a mere 26% stating that leadership prioritizes employee engagement.
Communication within organizations remains a significant hurdle, with only 15% achieving high levels of employee communication sophistication and 35% effectively training managers in communication skills. Employee experience continues to be a challenge, with just 36% of HR professionals rating their organizations highly in this area. As retention pressures mount in 2025, companies that focus on well-being and engagement are better positioned to retain top talent and enhance productivity.
Debbie McGrath, Chief Instigator and CEO of HR.com, emphasizes the importance of adapting to these trends. "Companies have significantly changed the global workforce in recent years, rethinking how and where people work," McGrath said. The study suggests that by analyzing emerging trends and implementing adaptive best practices, organizations can navigate uncertainty, drive innovation, and build resilient, future-ready work environments.
The Workplace Insights: Elevating Employee Experience and Future-Proofing Performance report is available for free download, offering a comprehensive look at the strategies employers can adopt to prepare for the future of HR.
