The year 2024 was marked by rapid change, economic and political uncertainty, and the ongoing evolution of work, workers, and the workplace. For HR departments, it was a pivotal year — demonstrating both their ability to adapt to shifting demands and the immense challenges they face in managing increasingly complex organizational dynamics. Navigating these complexities required innovative strategies, strategic foresight, and a commitment to sustaining progress in a workforce landscape that continues to undergo profound transformation. Understanding the state of HR during this defining moment is crucial not only for addressing current challenges but also for preparing for a future that demands even greater resilience, adaptability, and innovation. This report offers a comprehensive evaluation of HR’s priorities for 2024 and their impact. It highlights key strengths, identifies areas for improvement, and provides a look toward the future. The report seeks to answer critical questions such as: What were the top HR priorities in 2024? To what extent did HR meet its 2024 priorities? In which areas did HR succeed in 2024? Which areas do HR professionals and U.S. workers believe organizations should prioritize in 2025? To explore these questions, SHRM gathered data from 1,615 HR professionals, 238 HR executives, and 471 U.S. workers employed outside of HR in December 2024. The findings presented here serve both as a mirror, offering an honest reflection of HR’s performance in 2024, and as a map, offering a strategic guide to drive improvements in 2025.