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
In light of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, now is a good time for employers to consider the employee benefits that can help support employees.
Some workers may be dealing with anxiety and stress during election season. But employer help — including well-being benefits and manager training — can make all the difference.
With Election Day approaching, employers should review state and local voting leave laws and consider how time off to vote can support their workforce.
The nation’s largest private employer said it will cover GLP-1 medications without charge for Type 2 diabetes treatment but not for weight loss. That signals a larger employer debate.
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 AI to explain and compare employee benefits options, clarify eligibility and deadlines, and direct employees to HR for guidance.
Use AI to check internal communications for tone, clarity, and consistency with your organization's style before sending.
Set clear expectations for employees and managers with an inclement weather policy that addresses closures, pay, remote work, and legal compliance obligations.
Download this customizable template to build the foundation into your job analysis process for smarter hiring, accurate job descriptions, and confident pay decisions.