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
Leveraging consumer-driven health plans, promoting in-network care, and improving employees’ health literacy are some ways employers can address rising costs.
Using incentives and prioritizing communication that’s “early and often” can maximize employees’ engagement with open enrollment, one HR pro explains.
More than half of workers would trade pay for job security. Here’s what new research reveals about layoff anxiety and what employees value most.
From onsite healthcare to nature challenges, Atlantic Packaging is rethinking workplace wellness — and giving employees a broader way to think about health.
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
Understand recent FLSA updates and proposed rules on independent contractors, joint employers, and overtime pay, and learn how you can maintain compliance.
Optimize leave of absence (LOA) processes with SHRM's expert guide on the FMLA, ADA, and USERRA. Ensure HR compliance and effective documentation practices.
Enhance workforce stability with effective retention programs focused on motivation, engagement, and strategic HR practices.
Improve your remote management skills with this quiz. Answer questions on work stress, self-care practices, home office standards, and more.