Future of Work
Preparing organizations for the next era of work through innovation, technology, and agile workforce strategies.
2026 TRENDS
Workforce Evolution Accelerates in 2026
From fractional roles to polywork and hybrid models, workforce dynamics are rapidly changing — and change will only intensify in 2026. Discover how work will evolve, and explore all seven 2026 trends to stay ahead of the competition.
From AI to new models of work, the future of work is here — and HR teams are at the forefront of shaping it. Organizations must rethink where, how, and why work is done to remain competitive. This includes adopting emerging technologies, redesigning jobs, and preparing employees for the skills of tomorrow. The future of work is not a distant concept — it’s an evolving reality that requires proactive HR leadership.
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Key Data & Trends from SHRM Research:
71%
of U.S. workers want flexible work schedules, while only 14% prefer widespread AI/automation.
51%
of organizations now use AI in recruiting — the top HR function for AI adoption in 2025.
23%
Year-over-year growth in demand for HR tech skills (up 35% over two years).
Workforce Planning: The Future of Work
Anticipate tomorrow’s talent needs with proven strategies to build an agile and future-ready workforce.
Latest News
SHRM CEO explores how HR can lead through AI-driven change by preparing workers, supporting managers and keeping people at the center.
Learn how flexible work policies are developing. Explore future workplace trends and practical steps HR leaders can take to build flexible work strategies.
AI is creating new capacity at work. The real business question is whether leaders use those gains to cut costs or drive growth, revenue, and innovation.
AI usage is becoming a performance metric for some organizations. Explore industry leaders’ opinions on AI costs, job security implications, and ROI challenges.
Week one plays a critical role in how new hires perceive your organization. This culture first onboarding guide shares practical ways to create a first-week experience that builds connection, confidence, and belonging, starting day one.
Don’t Just Prepare for the Future — Lead It
AI, hybrid work, skills planning — SHRM membership equips you with forward-looking insights and tools to keep your organization competitive.
Become a SHRM Member and future-proof your workforce.
Member Resources
Learn how AI can help managers turn specific observations and assessments into clear, actionable performance review comments without evaluating employees.
Learn how to use AI to organize a learning catalog and recommend relevant courses based on employees’ goals, skills, roles and available time.
Learn how to use AI to turn training content into realistic scenarios, multiple-choice questions and micro-learning cards that reinforce key lessons.
Use AI to rewrite job ads that attract more qualified candidates, broaden your applicant pool, and better communicate what makes the role worth pursuing.