In 2021, HR pros rose to many challenges. They worked under pressure, independently and together, across distributed teams. They demonstrated a range of competencies in fast-paced, ever-changing environments. They're increasingly tech proficient, day by day, under fire.

Two steps ahead, HR worked to chart a way forward for the enterprise. By creative means in a laborer's marketplace, practitioners in the industry developed relationships that made the critical difference when it came to staff loyalty, engagement, retention and, ultimately, customer experience.

In 2021, HR pros' stock went up. But in this persistent pandemic atmosphere, resting on that rising valuation isn't an option. The new year will require continued progress, shaped by skills gained through a course of on-the-job training that cannot be denied. 

Here, industry experts share insights about what's to come in light of what has been. The year will demand a focus on equity, total rewards and flexibility, they told HR Dive. And their message is this: Take heart. In 2022, HR pros are the ones for the job.