HR communities are a great way to learn from other passionate professionals who have their finger on the pulse of human resource practices and find opportunities to mentor or be mentored by others in your line of work.
There are so many great communities to join—some online, some in-person. Here I've shortlisted my favorites with commentary to help you learn who it's for and why it's great.
Best HR Communities Shortlist
Here's a shortlist of the best HR communities I think are worth joining in 2024:
- SHRM - For HR best practices and certifications
- Culture Amp Slack Channel for People Geeks - For diverse individuals and skilled thought leaders from around the globe
- BambooHR - For discussions on HR software and best practices
- HR Certification Institute - For HR education and certification programs
- Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) - For professional development in human resources
- HR Leaders - For strategic HR insights and leader discussions
- r/humanresources - For casual HR discussions and advice
- r/AskHR - For quick HR advice and support
- DisruptHR Community - For innovative HR ideas and networking events
- Josh Bersin Academy - For exploring and leveraging HR technology
- Secret HR Society - For exclusive HR networking
- OneReq - For recruitment networking and insights
- PeoplePeople by Weirdly - For HR engagement and development
- The People People Group - For leadership and HR collaboration
- Resources For Humans - For modern HR tactics and peer insights
Find more details about each community below.
The 15 Best HR Communities
1. SHRM - For HR best practices and certifications
SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) is the world’s largest HR professional society, providing certification, training, and advocacy.
- Audience: HR professionals seeking certification, career advancement, and industry standards
- Size: 325,000+ members
- Membership Cost:
- Student - $49/year
- Global - $118/year
- Professional - $264/year
- Platform: Conferences, educational programs, and team training and development
Why Join:
Joining SHRM is invaluable for HR professionals looking to stay at the forefront of HR practices and legislation. It offers a comprehensive range of career development opportunities, including certification courses that are recognized globally. With a focus on both policy and practical implementation, SHRM prepares members to tackle the current challenges in the workplace, such as navigating remote work dynamics and integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies.
2. Culture Amp Slack Channel for People Geeks - For diverse individuals and skilled thought leaders from around the globe
The Culture Amp Slack Channel for People Geeks is a vibrant community where HR professionals and leaders exchange ideas and insights.
- Audience: HR professionals, people managers, and organizational psychologists
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Slack
Why Join:
The Culture Amp stands out by fostering a direct exchange of cutting-edge ideas in employee engagement and organizational psychology. This community is perfect for those looking to dive deep into advanced HR concepts with a global network of thought leaders. Members benefit from real-time advice and can participate in discussions that address the evolving needs of the modern workforce, such as adapting to hybrid work models and enhancing employee well-being in challenging times.
3. BambooHR - For discussions on HR software and best practices
The BambooHR Community is a forum for HR professionals to discuss best practices in HR technology and to learn how to maximize the use of BambooHR software in their organizations.
- Audience: HR practitioners interested in leveraging technology for HR management and operations
- Membership Cost: Free for BambooHR software users
- Platform: Slack
Why Join:
BambooHR is the go-to resource for users of BambooHR looking to optimize their HR processes through technology. It offers a unique opportunity to interact with other HR professionals who are similarly engaged in the technological transformation of HR. Members share tips, tricks, and best practices not only about using BambooHR software but also about broader HR functionalities like onboarding, payroll management, and employee satisfaction.
4. HR Certification Institute - For HR education and certification programs
The HRCI Community offers a platform for HR professionals to expand their knowledge through certification programs and continuous learning, fostering a deeper understanding of global HR practices.
- Audience: HR professionals aiming for certification and career advancement in global HR practices
- Size: 500,000+ members
- Platform: Website with interactive community features, webinars, and educational resources
Why Join:
The HRCI community is essential for HR professionals looking to certify their expertise and remain competitive in a global market. It offers a variety of certification programs such as SPHR and PHR certification that are recognized internationally.
Joining can gain access to exclusive educational materials, peer networking opportunities, and professional development courses that address current HR challenges such as digital transformation, multinational HR management, and compliance with international labor laws.
5. Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)- For professional development in human resources
The CIPD Community is an interactive online forum for HR professionals seeking to enhance their skills, knowledge, and careers through professional development and networking.
- Audience: HR professionals and students in HR looking for professional growth and networking opportunities
- Size: 160,000+ members
- Membership Cost:
- Student - $139/year
- Associate - $235/year
- Platform: Website-based discussion forum
Why Join:
Joining the CIPD Community offers unparalleled professional growth opportunities in human resources. It stands out by providing a network of professionals who share the latest HR trends and insights and access to research, case studies, and policy updates. Members benefit from mentorship opportunities, professional development courses, and forums to discuss challenges and solutions with peers worldwide.
6. HR Leaders - For strategic HR insights and leader discussions
HR Leaders offers a platform for high-level discussions and the sharing of strategic insights among senior HR professionals and industry leaders.
- Audience: Senior HR professionals, industry leaders, and strategic planners
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Mighty Networks
Why Join:
The HR Leaders community is a crucial resource for those looking to shape the future of HR within their organizations. This community distinguishes itself by providing access to strategic insights that address complex HR challenges such as leadership development, organizational change, and talent management.
7. r/humanresources - For casual HR discussions and advice
r/humanresources is a subreddit where HR professionals of all levels can engage in casual discussions, share advice, and ask questions about HR practices.
- Audience: HR professionals from entry-level to executives
- Size: 134,000+ members
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Reddit
Why Join:
r/humanresources is an excellent platform for HR professionals seeking a less formal environment to exchange ideas, seek advice, and share experiences. If nothing else, you'll find some HR truths revealed in ways only a Reddit thread can.
This community is valuable for its diverse range of perspectives, covering everything from routine queries to complex HR issues. Members can expect a broad mix of content including updates on HR laws, shared experiences on handling workplace conflicts, and tips on employee engagement.
8. r/AskHR - For quick HR advice and support
r/AskHR serves as a quick resource for anyone to ask HR-related questions and get advice from experienced HR professionals promptly.
- Audience: HR professionals, managers, and anyone with HR-related queries.
- Size: 1,300,000+ members
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Reddit
Why Join:
r/AskHR is the ideal community for fast and reliable answers to HR questions, making it a vital tool for both seasoned HR professionals and those new to the field. This subreddit is unique because it allows for anonymous question-asking, which is perfect for sensitive or confidential topics. The community is known for its rapid response times and the practicality of its advice, which spans across various HR issues from legal compliance and employee relations to hiring practices.
9. DisruptHR Community - For innovative HR ideas and networking events
DisruptHR Community is a global platform dedicated to sharing innovative ideas and fostering networking among forward-thinking HR professionals.
- Audience: HR innovators, disruptors, and those interested in cutting-edge HR practices
- Membership Cost: Free, with fees for event attendance
- Platform: Web-based and in-person events worldwide
Why Join:
DisruptHR Community stands out by encouraging unconventional thinking and the exploration of new approaches to HR challenges. It is valuable for HR professionals eager to break traditional molds and implement progressive strategies. Members gain ideas through rapid-fire, creative presentations shared at DisruptHR events. These gatherings are not only a hub for learning but also for networking with like-minded professionals who are shaping the future of workplaces.
10. Josh Bersin Academy - For exploring and leveraging HR technology
The Josh Bersin Academy is an online community focused on the exploration and practical use of HR technology to advance human resource practices.
- Audience: HR professionals, technologists, and analysts focused on the integration of technology in HR.
- Size: 50,000+ members
- Membership Cost: $49/month
- Platform: Online learning platform and community forums
Why Join:
The Josh Bersin Academy is essential for HR professionals looking to deepen their understanding of HR technology and its applications in the workforce. This community is unique due to its foundation in research and evidence-based practices. The perks and benefits of joining are comprehensive courses, detailed case studies, and direct access to some of the leading experts in HR technology.
11. Secret HR Society - For exclusive HR networking
The Secret HR Society is an invitation-only network offering exclusive opportunities for senior HR professionals to connect and collaborate on high-level strategic initiatives.
- Audience: Senior HR executives and decision-makers
- Membership Cost: Referral-based membership
- Platform: Slack
Why Join:
Secret HR Society offers a unique opportunity for high-ranking HR professionals to engage in confidential and strategic discussions that are impossible in larger, more public forums. Its exclusivity and quality of its networking opportunities, allow members to form powerful connections and partnerships. The focus is on sharing advanced strategies, discussing industry trends, and solving complex HR challenges.
12. OneReq - For recruitment networking and insights
OneReq provides a dynamic platform for recruiters to network, share insights, and discuss the latest trends in talent acquisition.
- Audience: Recruitment professionals and talent acquisition leaders
- Size: 1,500+ members
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Slack
Why Join:
OneReq is essential for recruitment professionals seeking to enhance their sourcing strategies and networking skills in a highly competitive job market. It offers a unique environment where recruiters can exchange the latest tools, strategies, and insights on talent acquisition. Regular discussions include diversity hiring, technology integration in recruitment, and best practices for candidate engagement.
13. PeoplePeoply by Weirdly - For HR engagement and development
PeoplePeople is centered around boosting HR engagement and development through innovative practices and creative solutions.
- Audience: HR professionals focused on employee engagement and development
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Slack
Why Join:
PeoplePeople is the perfect community for HR teams who want to push the boundaries of traditional employee engagement and development methods. It stands out by providing creative tools and approaches that make HR practices more effective and enjoyable for employees. Topics discussed include gamification of training, personalized development plans, and using technology to enhance employee experience.
14. The People People Group - For leadership and HR collaboration
The community The People People Group fosters collaboration between HR professionals and leaders to enhance leadership and organizational culture.
- Audience: HR leaders, executives, and anyone involved in shaping company culture and leadership.
- Size: $4,500+ members
- Membership Cost:
- Develop - Free
- Grow - $29/month
- Lead - $55/month
- Platform: Slack
Why Join:
The People People Group is a valuable resource to enhance leadership and foster a positive organizational culture. It provides a platform for sharing best practices, discussing leadership challenges, and exploring new approaches to HR management. Members benefit from exclusive workshops, leadership training sessions, and collaborative projects that help them develop into more effective leaders.
15. Resources for Humans - For modern HR tactics and peer insights
Resources for Humans is dedicated to modern HR tactics and sharing peer insights, helping professionals stay at the forefront of HR industry innovations.
- Audience: Modern HR professionals interested in the latest HR strategies and technologies
- Size: 22,000+ members
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Slack
Why Join:
Resources for Humans is crucial for HR professionals eager to apply modern tactics and leverage peer insights in their daily practices. It offers an array of resources including best practices, user experiences, and innovative approaches to HR challenges like performance management, employee engagement, and feedback systems.
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