New HR Research Reveals Critical Trends in Employee Development and Mobility

The HR Research Institute has released its comprehensive study, HR.com's Future of Career Development & Mobility 2025-26, developed under the guidance of its career development Advisory Board. This research provides HR professionals with strategic insights into the evolving landscape of employee growth, examining how organizations can unlock workforce potential and prepare for future challenges. The study emerged from new research conducted by HRRI and a one-day virtual event held on December 4, 2025, where participants explored key findings on career development and mobility.

Research topics covered organizational engagement in employee development initiatives, challenges and benefits of effective career development programs, and strategies to support employee growth. The study also examined career development's role in succession management, resource allocation to prevent skills gaps, internal mobility trends and barriers, and emerging technologies driving employee development. Recordings from the virtual event are available on-demand at https://www.hr.com/future-of-career-development-mobility-2025-virtual-event.

The Advisory Board guiding this research includes 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. Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, emphasized that "their guidance has helped organizations develop actionable strategies to cultivate talent, enhance internal mobility, and use career development as a competitive advantage."

The research addresses critical workforce challenges including skills gaps that threaten organizational performance and the need for effective internal mobility programs. As organizations face increasing competition for talent, the study provides evidence-based approaches to developing employees from within rather than relying solely on external hiring. This approach not only reduces recruitment costs but also increases employee engagement and retention by demonstrating investment in career growth.

Free research reports and infographics covering all HR specialties are available through the HR Research Institute at https://www.hr.com/researchinstitute. The HR Research Institute, powered by HR.com, serves more than 2 million HR professionals with research findings that help organizations make strategic decisions about workforce development. Their comprehensive approach to research involves surveys developed with assistance from thought leaders and industry experts on advisory boards, ensuring practical relevance for HR practitioners facing real-world challenges in talent management and employee development.