Total Rewards
Using compensation and benefits strategically to retain talent, control costs, and drive organizational performance.
FEATURED RESEARCH:
2026 SHRM Employee Benefits Survey Report
A comprehensive annual survey of HR professionals capturing the prevalence of benefits across a wide range of offerings.
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The Importance of Benefits
Compensation and benefits are among the largest expenses for organizations, but when managed strategically, they deliver outsized returns in retention and engagement. HR leaders who design effective rewards systems reduce turnover and attract top talent. Total rewards is more than pay, it's a business lever for maximizing workforce ROI.
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Key Data Trends
49%
the median share of operating expenses attributed to salaries in 2026, up from 41% in 2022, making compensation and benefits a major organizational cost
61%
of HR pros say competitive compensation is very or extremely effective for retaining deskless workers
56%
of HR professionals report ongoing challenges in retaining deskless workers, emphasizing the importance of total rewards strategies for reducing turnover
SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential
Design competitive compensation and benefits programs that boost employee engagement with the SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential.
Latest News
Health benefit costs are rising faster than expected in 2026. Find out what strategies employers are using to manage expenses without shifting all costs to workers.
HR leaders must address caregiving needs to reduce employee stress, improve productivity, and retain top talent in a changing workforce.
Working parents face added summer stress. Employers should use this time to remind employees about childcare, flexibility, and other benefits.
Design Rewards That Deliver
SHRM membership provides insights on compensation, benefits, and pay transparency that attract talent and reduce turnover.
Become a SHRM Member and build a total rewards strategy that works.
Member Resources
California overtime law sets strict standards for HR. Review key exemptions, pay thresholds, and compliance tips to help prevent wage claims and penalties.
Design a benefits program that attracts and retains top talent. Use this step-by-step guide to align your strategy, control costs, and boost employee engagement.
Ensure your expense reimbursement policy aligns with remote, hybrid, and multi-state work. Clear communication and consistent application are essential for compliance.
Discover why revisiting employee benefits is key to keeping your top performers. Learn strategies to enhance retention, and which benefits employees value most.