And here is what they are doing about it in 2026
The HR function is going through a quiet but massive transformation. And the numbers confirm it.
A survey of over 1,000 HR professionals showed: 43% plan to update HR technologies in 2026. And 80% expect their company to purchase new workforce management software within the next 12 months.
But it is not just about technology. Almost a third of HR professionals say their biggest problem is the time spent on repetitive tasks. And 80% admit that data is scattered across different systems — which leads to inaccurate reporting.
What is at the top of HR priorities for 2026
The top 5 priorities are:
— Technology updates
— Employee development and retraining
— AI implementation
— Improving the employee experience
— Attracting and retaining talent
The second point is the most interesting. Development and retraining have moved to the forefront because the market is changing faster than companies can adapt. And HR already understands this well.
What this means for you
The market demands one thing — people with confirmed competencies that match the new realities.
That is why executives, managers and HR directors are increasingly choosing training under ACPM standards not just for themselves, but for their entire team. It is an opportunity to simultaneously raise staff qualifications, update internal strategy and obtain confirmed international competencies where it truly matters.
Source: Paycom HR Trends and Priorities Report 2026 · PSB Insights
