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.
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.
Member OnlyLooking to design pay and benefits that attract and retain talent?
Ask a SHRM Knowledge Advisor or insights on building competitive total rewards.
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
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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
Use this comprehensive checklist to effectively document the physical activities and demands required for a position as well as its environmental working conditions.
Get guidance on allowable and prohibited salary deductions for exempt employees. Align your pay practices with the Fair Labor Standards Act and state laws.
Understand key compliance rules for employer-sponsored wellness programs to design and implement effective employee well-being initiatives.
Learn how AI can help turn HR notes into clear, consistent communications while preserving your organization’s voice and avoiding invented details.