The HR Research Institute has released its comprehensive study, HR.com's Future of Career Development & Mobility 2025-26, offering critical insights for organizations navigating the evolving landscape of employee growth. This research matters because effective career development programs directly impact organizational success, talent retention, and competitive advantage in a rapidly changing labor market.
Developed under the guidance of the career development Advisory Board, the study addresses fundamental challenges facing modern workplaces. Research topics include organizational engagement in development initiatives, the challenges and benefits of effective career programs, and strategies to support employee growth. The findings are particularly important as organizations grapple with skills gaps and the need for robust succession management.
Internal mobility trends, barriers, and their impacts on career growth represent another crucial area of investigation. As companies seek to retain top talent, understanding how to facilitate internal movement becomes essential. The research also examines emerging technologies driving employee development, providing organizations with insights into tools that can enhance their development programs.
The advisory board guiding this research includes prominent industry thought leaders such as Gayle Lantz of Workmatters, Bev Kaye of BevKaye&Co., Frank Ginac of TalentGuard, Megan Bickle of Rothy's, Jennifer Borun of Cornerstone OnDemand, Doreen Coles of ADP, and Jonathan Westover of Western Governors University. These experts provide strategic insights to help organizations unlock workforce potential.
"This group comprises some of the brightest minds in HR and workforce development," said Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com. "Their guidance has helped organizations develop actionable strategies to cultivate talent, enhance internal mobility, and use career development as a competitive advantage."
The implications of this research extend across industries, as organizations that fail to prioritize employee development risk falling behind in talent acquisition and retention. Effective development programs can prevent skills gaps that hinder organizational growth and innovation. The research findings are available through various formats, including free research reports and infographics accessible at https://hr.com/researchinstitute.
For HR professionals seeking to maximize their organization's potential, additional resources are available through the HR Research Institute at https://hr.com/hrresearchinstitute. The institute publishes hundreds of high-quality reports across diverse HR topics, providing evidence-based guidance for strategic decision-making. This research is particularly timely as organizations worldwide face increasing pressure to develop their existing workforce rather than relying solely on external hiring.
The study's release coincides with growing recognition that career development is not merely an employee benefit but a strategic imperative. Organizations that implement effective development programs typically experience higher employee engagement, reduced turnover, and stronger leadership pipelines. As workplace dynamics continue to evolve, this research provides a crucial foundation for organizations seeking to build resilient, adaptable workforces capable of meeting future challenges.
