How do you stay updated on the latest HR trends and technologies? Can you share one resource or practice that has been particularly helpful?

Question

Discover cutting-edge strategies for staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of human resources with this comprehensive guide. Gain valuable insights from industry experts to navigate the latest HR trends and technologies with confidence. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools shared by seasoned professionals to excel in the dynamic world of HR.

Brett Ungashick · Answer

Staying updated on the latest HR trends and technologies requires a proactive and continuous approach. I rely on a combination of professional networks, industry publications, and webinars to stay informed about new developments. One particularly helpful practice is regularly participating in HR-focused online communities and forums, where professionals share insights, challenges, and solutions. These discussions often provide practical, real-world applications of emerging trends.
Additionally, I've found HR-specific platforms, such as SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) and HRCI (HR Certification Institute), invaluable for accessing up-to-date research, reports, and certifications. These resources highlight trends and offer actionable advice for implementing them effectively in the workplace. Subscribing to their newsletters and attending their webinars ensures I stay current and informed.
Another key practice is leveraging LinkedIn to follow thought leaders and companies at the forefront of HR innovation. Engaging with their content helps me understand how others are adopting trends like AI in HR, diversity and inclusion strategies, and employee experience platforms. By leveraging these resources, I can adapt quickly to shifts in HR technologies and strategies.

Patrick Proctor · Answer

To stay informed on the latest HR trends and technologies, I rely on a combination of industry newsletters, webinars, and networking with peers in the legal and HR communities. One valuable resource is HR Dive, an online publication that provides timely updates on HR compliance, employment law, and emerging technologies. This allows me to stay ahead of changes in legislation and best practices. Additionally, attending conferences such as SHRM's Annual Conference keeps me engaged with the latest tools and legal interpretations. I also engage with professional organizations like the American Bar Association's Section of Labor and Employment Law, which provides expert insights on legal issues affecting HR. As for trusted law firms specializing in employment and risk mitigation, I would recommend firms such as Littler Mendelson, Ogletree Deakins, Jackson Lewis, and Fisher Phillips, as they are well-respected for their expertise in these areas.

Joey Price · Answer

*Disclaimer*: I will reference a tool/product we sell and would love a link to the resource... however, if that is too promotional, I understand. 
The most important trend any HR professional needs to stay on top of is the emerging trends in labor law and compliance. Why is it the most important? Because labor law stands at the intersection of popular culture, compliance and operational strategy. We have seen just in these few short years in our "post-covid" society changes in law and sentiment around DEI, minimum wage, immigration, worker safety, mental health and sick leave (just to name a few). No matter what technology you buy or trend you believe is "in," it all is secondary to the law and where your jurisdiction is trending in this key area. 
To stay current, I subscribe to several blogs from law firms, regularly check US Department of Labor and EEOC social media and subscribe to our HR Answers (https://jumpstart-hr.com/product/hr-answers/) service that includes real-time alerts for labor law changes in states that are important for me to review. Legal blogs help me learn about recent cases and trusted legal interpretations of those verdicts. DOL and EEOC social media helps me stay on top of news straight out of the Federal landscape. HR Answers helps me know Federal and State law changes that require employee handbook updates, posters or strategic changes in how we administer HR for our clients.

David Case · Answer

I have a multi-faceted approach to staying up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations in the HR industry, and I will say that would be my first tip to other professionals—don't rely on any one source of information if you want to have a well-rounded perspective on your industry.
One specific resource I'll highlight that I think is often overlooked is Reddit. There are several communities devoted specifically to HR, including some with 100,000+ members like r/humanresources, r/recruiting, or r/askHR (which has nearly 2 million members). Even if you don't want to actively engage on the site, you can learn a lot by reading others' posts and the comments/replies to them. This is a particularly effective way to track trends since you can see what kinds of questions, challenges, or solutions are top of mind for other HR professionals. You can also ask your own questions or start conversations if there are specific things you're curious about, and get input from thousands of professionals from all over the world.
Like I said, I don't rely exclusively on Reddit. I also subscribe to industry newsletters and publications from groups like SHRM, Harvard Business Review, and HR Open Source, as well as attending conferences and events where I can talk face-to-face with other professionals. What I like about Reddit is that it fills in the gaps left by these other resources. It's more potentially interactive than subscribing to newsletters or publications and is a way to engage with other professionals at any time, not just when you're currently attending an industry event.

Paul Sher · Answer

As someone deep in the tech world, I actually built a custom RSS feed that pulls updates from HR Tech News, SHRM, and TechCrunch's HR coverage into our team's Slack channel. When we implemented this at FuseBase, our HR team started spotting automation opportunities much faster, like a chatbot system we now use for initial candidate screening. I've learned that staying updated isn't about reading everything, but about creating systems that filter the most relevant information to you automatically.

Vikrant Bhalodia · Answer

We stay updated on HR trends and technologies by dedicating time each week to learning and experimenting. As a team, we prioritize exploring new ideas through industry blogs, HR-focused Slack communities, and engaging with peers on platforms like LinkedIn. These spaces give us insights that go beyond traditional resources, helping us understand challenges in real time.
One approach that's worked well for us is hands-on experimentation. When AI-driven tools started emerging in recruitment, we tried a few internally to evaluate their potential and limitations. That hands-on experience gave us a deeper understanding than simply reading about them.
By combining structured learning with practical application, we ensure that our strategies stay fresh and adaptable. It's this balance that keeps us ahead in the ever-evolving HR space.

Nick Esquivel · Answer

At Globaltize, staying updated on HR trends and technologies is essential, and two key practices have been particularly helpful: LinkedIn networking and subscribing to targeted HR newsletters. LinkedIn is invaluable for connecting with industry leaders, participating in discussions, and following thought leaders who share insights on emerging trends, like AI in recruiting or global payroll solutions. Additionally, subscribing to niche newsletters ensures we receive curated, up-to-date information directly in our inbox. These newsletters often highlight case studies, new technologies, and regulatory changes, which are crucial for managing global talent. Combining these resources helps us stay ahead in understanding and applying the latest HR innovations.

Vanessa Parker-Lewis · Answer

Tracking HR tech trends involves a combination of strategies to ensure you're aware of the latest innovations and best practices. Leveraging industry-specific and cross-industry networks is a key approach. These networks help you stay connected to a wide range of thought leaders, who offer insights into both HR-specific developments and broader trends that could impact the field. This can include following influencers, startups, attending vendor events, and maintaining relationships with technology providers that specialize in HR solutions.
A crucial aspect is understanding that just because an organization isn't ready to adopt a new technology immediately doesn't mean it will never be ready. Organizational needs evolve, and certain technologies may become a fit as new opportunities arise.
Moreover, collaboration with leaders outside the HR department is important for staying ahead of emerging trends. For instance, innovations in AI, and machine learning, often spearheaded by tech teams outside HR, can have a significant impact on HR.

Elmo Taddeo · Answer

As a leader in IT services and a firm believer in staying ahead of the curve, I rely on a mix of hands-on experimentation and trusted resources to keep up with HR trends and technologies. One approach that has been invaluable is engaging directly with AI-driven tools. At Parachute, we've explored how generative AI can streamline recruitment, optimize onboarding, and even support team training. This firsthand exposure helps me understand both the possibilities and the challenges AI brings to HR.
One resource that's been particularly helpful is SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management). Their articles and webinars often address the practical application of emerging technologies in HR. Recently, I attended a session on integrating generative AI into performance evaluations. It highlighted common pitfalls and actionable steps for ensuring AI systems align with organizational goals and values. Learning from experts in this space helps me guide my team toward smarter adoption of new tools.
Experimentation and continuous learning are essential for navigating change. I encourage HR leaders to pilot new technologies with clear objectives and regular feedback loops. For example, when we introduced an AI-driven applicant screening tool, we tested it with a small hiring pool and reviewed its effectiveness before full implementation. Staying curious and proactive allows us to adapt to technological shifts and ensure our teams feel confident and supported in the process.

Umeadi Grace chisom · Answer

Participating in Online Communities 
The truth is that staying up to date on industry trends can be challenging especially when new trends are always being introduced, and some old ones are being cast aside. However, in my experience, I have found that a good way to stay on top of every new piece of information is by engaging in professional forums. The way I see it, participating in professional forums, especially in online communities, comes with a double advantage, first of all, you get to engage with colleagues, share common challenges, and learn from their experiences and not just from your own mistakes. Then, there is also the fact that whatever new trend you may have missed out on, someone else might find out and share it with the community.
For me, participating in online communities not only reduces my risk of being ignorant of changing industry trends but also makes it easier for me to adjust better to these changes, as well as boost the effectiveness of my approach. Because the access to diverse perspectives from practicing and experienced professionals in the industry helps to guide and inform my decisions and strategy.
Another additional practice that has been particularly helpful in keeping up with HR trends, is attending conferences and webinars. The very opportunity to associate and communicate with like-minded individuals whose professional struggles and realities align with my career ambitions helps to provide valuable insights on the best ways of navigating challenges in the industry as well as helps me stay mindful of the industry's best practices.

Mary Chidinma · Answer

Following industry leaders on social media
One way I have managed to stay updated on the latest HR trends and technologies is by following industry leaders on my social media and attending and participating in virtual webinars and conferences. In my professional experience, I have learned that networking is by far one of the most effective ways to leverage and take full advantage of the opportunities social media offers to enhance my professional growth and improve my job readiness and ability to tackle the challenges that come with my job role.
As an HR professional, I have found that dedicating time to reading industry publications, blogs, and articles weekly, is one of the easiest ways I can be sure to be abreast of all recent developments in the industry and HR practices. Well, apart from my social media, another particularly helpful resource, is listening to podcasts, particularly, the HR podcast and HR future.
I have come to enjoy both of these podcasts for the engaging and relevant topics they discuss, the access to expert insights from experienced HR professionals, and the fact that listening to these conversations helps me stay aware of new developments, as well as arms me with relevant insights to grow and improve my skills, plus their focus on the future of HR and the evolving role of HR in the workplace.

Cyrus Partow · Answer

Running a remote-first company, I rely heavily on the HR Tech Weekly podcast and regularly participate in their Discord community where HR leaders share real experiences with new tools and strategies. I recently implemented a suggestion from the community about using AI-powered onboarding software, which has cut our training time in half while keeping our remote team feeling connected and supported.

Austin Taylor · Answer

I've found that attending monthly virtual HR tech demos through SHRM has been a game-changer for keeping up with the latest tools for managing our exhibit design teams. Just last week, I learned about a new project management app that helps track employee performance during trade shows, which has already made our team coordination much smoother.

Praveen Kumar · Answer

I stay connected with HR updates through the SHRM US mobile app, which has been super helpful in understanding local compliance changes and emerging workplace trends specific to our region. Recently, I started a monthly virtual meetup with other digital agency founders where we share HR best practices and technology solutions, which has given me practical insights I can actually use in my business.

Christian Marin · Answer

I stay plugged into HR tech by attending monthly virtual conferences and participating in hands-on demos of new HR platforms, which has helped me understand what actually works for tech teams versus just buzzworthy features. Last month, I discovered a great AI-powered onboarding tool at the HR Tech Connect summit that we're now testing with our dev team, and I'd definitely recommend checking out these interactive events rather than just reading about trends.

Ryan Miller · Answer

I've found LinkedIn's HR professionals groups to be incredibly valuable - just last week, I learned about a new AI-powered recruitment tool through a discussion thread that we're now testing at Etna. I also make it a point to attend quarterly healthcare-focused HR webinars, which help me understand how other agencies are handling remote work challenges and talent retention in our industry.

Ketie Zhang · Answer

I believe staying updated on the latest HR trends and technologies is all about creating a routine of continuous learning and curiosity. Personally, I rely heavily on a mix of industry blogs, webinars, and networking with other business owners who face similar challenges. A resource that has been particularly insightful for me is LinkedIn Learning. They offer short, targeted courses on everything from recruitment strategies to building an inclusive workplace. But beyond tools, I've found that listening to my team and understanding their needs provides a real-world perspective that no article or course could replicate. For instance, implementing a digital collaboration platform based on team feedback improved both communication and productivity in my business. Innovation often starts with open dialog and adaptability, two principles I always try to prioritize. Staying flexible and open to change keeps me ahead in this ever-evolving space.

17 Resources to Stay Updated On the Latest HR Trends and Technologies

17 Resources to Stay Updated On the Latest HR Trends and Technologies

Participate in HR Online Communities

Rely on HR Dive for Updates

Stay Current on Labor Law Trends

Use Reddit for HR Insights

Create Custom RSS Feeds

Dedicate Time to Learning Weekly

Network on LinkedIn and Subscribe to Newsletters

Leverage Industry Networks and Collaboration

Engage with AI-Driven Tools

Participate in Professional Forums

Follow Industry Leaders on Social Media

Rely on HR Tech Weekly Podcast

Attend Monthly Virtual HR Tech Demos

Use SHRM US Mobile App

Attend Monthly Virtual Conferences

Join LinkedIn HR Professionals Groups

Use LinkedIn Learning for Continuous Learning