This article was originally published by Training Magazine in Jan. 2024
L&D and HR trends that will impact the year ahead.
Although 2024 is in the rearview mirror, several learning and development (L&D) and Human Resources (HR) trends will continue to accelerate in 2025. Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to drive many of the predictions for this year, particularly those pertaining to employee training/development/upskilling, recruiting/hiring, and how to move from AI implementation to measuring and realizing the value of AI. Companies also are continuing to bring their workforces back to the office, while at the same time looking to bridge the generational divide and dialing back on some of their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts.
Here, industry experts and researchers identify and explore the L&D and HR trends they believe will most impact 2025:
RJ FRASCA, VP, CHANNELS & PARTNERSHIPS, SHIELD SCREENING
A hiring rebound will drive demand for speed and precision.
Stronger hiring intentions in 2025 mean HR teams can expect growing pressure to manage large-scale recruitment and onboarding in a modern way that’s more efficient and accurate. Traditional, manual screening processes won’t meet this new required pace. In 2025, organizations will continue the adoption of technology-driven screening solutions that leverage automation, deliver must-have updates in real-time, and streamline vetting processes to support hiring speed and quality. Advanced tools will incorporate modern drug testing and continuous monitoring to secure reliable, qualified hires who align with an organization’s values.
A return to in-person work will reshape HR priorities.
Anticipated return-to-office initiatives will demand refreshed hiring approaches from HR departments. Thorough background screening will be foundational for building safe, productive, and collaborative work environments for organizations making the switch. Businesses also will need to address state-specific regulations for background checks and drug screening, particularly for geographically dispersed workforces with offices across the nation.
Mental health and wellness will take center stage.
With OSHA increasing its focus on workplace mental health, employers will need to go beyond physical safety measures to create comprehensive occupational health programs. This includes offering mental health resources, wellness initiatives, and benefits that proactively address employee well-being.
Screening platforms can be valuable partners in getting started, helping organizations implement these resources into their existing screening process. With wellness-focused tools in place, employers can better support their workforce and support higher retention rates.
Anticipating compliance updates will be crucial.
HR professionals should be prepared to face a complex regulatory landscape in 2025, with anticipated updates at the local, state, and federal levels. Shifting requirements in areas such as data privacy laws, fair chance hiring practices, and state-specific mandates for background checks and onboarding will require a corresponding increase in vigilance.
Advanced screening techniques that prioritize staying up to date with compliance updates will be critical for businesses to stay ahead of these changes. By partnering with providers offering customizable, automated checks, businesses can feel confident that their hiring practices are efficient, compliant, and tailored to their needs. In a year projected to see a hiring rebound, maintaining legal compliance will be essential for avoiding expensive disruptions.
At, Shield Screening, we partner with dozens of industry leaders to offer total background check customization. Plus, fully electronic authorization forms, I-9s, signatures, and report tracking in a user-friendly portal that integrates with the top ATS platforms. For a free demo, contact us today!
