What HR leaders expect in 2026 vs. what’s actually coming

HR leaders are entering 2026 in a haze of opinions around AI adoption, workforce planning and employee engagement. However, some expert projections reveal significant gaps between executive optimism and operational reality, which puts uncertainty on the CHRO’s desk along with all the regular responsibilities.

According to industry leaders, here are four areas where expectations diverge from what evidence suggests will actually unfold.

AI will drive measurable productivity gains

Read entire article