Recently, SHRM-Atlanta conducted a comprehensive Needs Assessment survey to better understand what matters most to our members and HR community. We are grateful to the more than 500 professionals who shared candid insights about their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future of the profession and the Atlanta HR community. The collective themes will be used in developing a new strategic plan in early 2026 and shaping its implementation.

What We Heard:

• The Value of Connection – Members consistently emphasized the importance of networking and building relationships across industries and career levels.
• Professional Growth Opportunities – Respondents shared a desire for more resources that support career pathways, leadership skills, and adapting to the evolving world of work.
• Day-to-Day HR Realities – Many highlighted the workload, compliance pressures, and resource constraints HR faces, especially in smaller organizations.
• Understanding HR’s Role – A strong theme was the need to help non-HR colleagues and leaders better understand HR’s strategic contributions.
• The Future of Work – Topics like AI, workforce change, and innovative HR practices emerged as top of mind for professionals at all levels.

The SHRM-Atlanta Board of Directors is carefully reviewing these results and will use your input as the foundation for our new multi-year strategic plan. Our 2022 Needs Assessment and strategic plan helped prompt an emphasis on micro gatherings around the metro area, workshops and certificate programs on key skill areas beyond traditional HR certification, investment in our mentoring program, and realignment of strategic partnerships and volunteer efforts. Similarly, our next plan will guide how SHRM-Atlanta invests in member resources, programs, and partnerships to strengthen Atlanta’s HR community in the years ahead.

Look for updates in early 2026 as that plan is introduced. In the meantime, we invite you to continue engaging with your SHRM-Atlanta community through upcoming events, committees, and conversations.

Together, we are shaping the future of work in Atlanta. Thank you for lending your voice and helping us build a stronger, more connected HR community. And congratulations to the four winners of the $50 gift cards given to participants in the survey: Dan Warcup, Anna Ruiz, Whitney Robinson Jackson, and Rachel Gaines!