From Transactional to Transformational: Evolve into a Strategic HR Leader

In a workplace that’s evolving faster than ever, it’s no surprise that ambitious professionals are eager to keep up with the changing landscape.

Many HR professionals today are hungry to grow their careers, step into leadership roles, and gain a seat at the table. However, they need more than strong people skills, or a broad knowledge of HR. Today’s organizations expect HR professionals to be strategic business partners who understand how to drive business results in the age of AI—not just manage people and processes.

At SHRM Talent 2025 and across the HR industry, one message has been clear: the most successful HR professionals aren’t just reacting to business needs—they’re anticipating them. They’re strategic business partners who help shape the future of their organizations by:

• Anticipating talent needs before they arise and strategically planning for those needs
• Using data-driven insights to drive decision-making
• Understanding financial metrics and how HR impacts the bottom line
• Advocating for inclusive, people-first cultures that enhance engagement

In short, they need professionals who are thinking like business leaders. The good news? These are skills you can cultivate and strengthen starting right now.

If you’re ready to move from transactional to transformational, we’ve outlined everything you need to know from the expert keynote speakers and industry leaders at this year's SHRM Talent. Don’t hesitate to start building the skills that will set you apart in 2025 and beyond.

Six High Demand Skill Sets That Will Advance Your HR Career

1. Business and Financial Acumen

Influential HR leaders have a solid grasp of business principles, such as finance, marketing, and operations. Learning to read financial statements and align HR strategy with business objectives will elevate your conversations with leadership and, therefore, your professional standing.

2. Strategic Thinking and Data Storytelling

The most impactful HR leaders don’t just react to what’s happening today—they think strategically about what’s coming next. These individuals consistently assess how their decisions will impact the future success of the company. The ability to gather and analyze workforce data, such as turnover rates, engagement scores, or hiring metrics, is what sets them apart. But what truly defines a great HR professional is the ability to turn that data into a clear, actionable story that business leaders can use to drive meaningful transformation.

3. Change Management

In a workplace defined by change, HR professionals are tasked with guiding their teams through the unfamiliar age of AI. As organizational structures, internal processes, and cultural norms undergo rapid shifts, your role is to become highly adaptable. Whether it’s rolling out a new performance management system or leading a workforce transformation, strategic HR leaders have a strong understanding of how to manage these changes, communicate effectively, and keep stakeholders engaged.

4. Emotional Intelligence and Relationship Building

It’s true that HR professionals are often the behind-the-scenes drivers of progress, shaping internal initiatives and navigating transitions. But at its core, authentic influence starts with relationships. Developing strong emotional intelligence (EQ) will help you build a foundation of trust and credibility to lead teams forward. This includes active listening, having empathy for workers navigating uncertain times, and encouraging open communication channels.

5. AI and Technology Literacy

AI and technology are reshaping the role of HR. The role of HR is also tasked with leading the charge—now responsible for guiding and managing the integration of AI into the workplace. Therefore, strong technical literacy is a must for those looking to stay competitive. You don’t need to be a tech wiz, but understanding how to leverage AI tools, interpret data, and use technology effectively will set you apart in today’s labor market.

6. A Willingness to Commit to Continuous Learning

For all professionals in today’s workforce, upskilling—and just as importantly, a willingness to keep learning—is a non-negotiable. If you want to be seen as a high-value candidate, a commitment to continuous growth is the ticket. In fact, Gallup found that 60% of workers who recently learned a new skill did so because it helped them do their job more effectively. Meaning? Those who don’t may risk falling behind.

Staying up-to-date on new trends and best practices and actively seeking opportunities to expand your knowledge will all contribute to elevating your career in the long run.

How to Start Building Strategic Influence

Don’t wait for a promotion or formal leadership title to start developing your skills. The best time to start is right now—no matter where you are in your career. There are many ways you can begin positioning yourself as a strategic influencer and key contributor in your organization.

Take Charge of Your Professional Development by Investing in Learning

Enroll in learning programs designed to help you build the right competencies for becoming an effective and well-rounded leader. Seek out webinars, workshops, and certifications that focus on teaching strong skill sets (like the ones mentioned above). Money doesn’t need to be a barrier, either, although investing in your future is the one that will pay dividends; there are plenty of free resources on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube. Or, for example, programs like SHRM’s HR Business Partner (HRBP): Becoming a Strategic Influencer are designed specifically for mid to high-level HR professionals who are ready to grow their influence.

Find Mentors and Allies

Narrow in on leaders in your organization who exemplify strategic influence—those who inspire you and whose careers you’d like to emulate. Don’t hesitate to ask them how they built their careers, what lessons they learned from their mistakes, and what they might do differently if given the chance. Building relationships with these people not only expands your network but also gives you invaluable insights and guidance that will help shape your own leadership journey.

Seek out Cross Functional Projects

Part of growing your business and financial acumen means getting outside of your immediate role. Expose yourself to business operations, finance, or technology teams so that you can develop a deeper understanding of how all levels of the business work, individually and as a whole. Expanding your knowledge of internal teams outside of your own will give you an advantage when it comes to implementing effective initiatives for the entire company.

Expand Your Mindset

You don’t need to be a leader to start thinking like one. When you’re addressing challenges within your role, practice asking yourself: “How does this affect the company’s bottom line?” “Is there data I can use to make a stronger case?” “How can I leverage data to influence leaders and drive progress forward?”

Think Like a Business Leader to Become One

If you’ve set out to grow your career in 2025, the key may just be to work smarter—not harder. Or, to work more strategically. HR leaders possess a strong ability to influence, innovate, and drive business outcomes—skills you can start to build upon right now.

By investing in yourself, you can work towards becoming a trusted, strategic partner who shapes the future of your organization.

Ready to put your skills into action? Take the next step in your journey by tuning into the latest episode of Talk Talent to Me, where Harvard Business Publishing CHRO Angela Cheng-Cimini shares insights on expanding your influence, advocating for yourself, supporting mental wellness, and evolving your career mindset.

Listen to the episode now and discover how to lead with purpose and impact.