At SHRM 25, Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM’s President and CEO, delivered a powerful message that resonated with every HR professional: our job has fundamentally changed. We’re no longer just reacting to problems or trying to keep up; instead, we’re now charting the course for the future of work.
Taylor’s main speech urged HR leaders to look past everyday issues, gain a broader view, and lead with clear purpose, courage, and vision. He spoke about the challenges HR has faced recently—like not having enough skilled workers, changing workplace cultures, and new AI tools. Key points included making sure everyone has opportunities even with attacks on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), how HR can help manage the global job changes, and keeping politeness, honesty, and trust alive in our workplaces for future generations.