According to HP’s latest Workplace Relationships Index, only a quarter (26%) of UK knowledge workers have a healthy relationship with their work.
Despite a slight improvement compared to last year, the figures are indicative of poor performance and productivity in several sectors as a result of lower motivation and satisfaction.
However, all this could be about to change if companies act on the needs of workers: more widespread adoption of AI and personalized work environments.
AI could help knowledge workers in more ways than one
HP found that AI adoption among UK workers had more than doubled, from 27% in 2023 to 66% in 2024, and workers were noticeably happier over the same period.
Around three in four (73%) globally agree that AI makes their work easier, and three in five highlight the positive effects on work-life balance.
However, workers remain concerned about the impact of artificial intelligence on the labour market: 39% of UK workers are worried that AI could replace human jobs, more than last year.
In addition to the help of emerging technologies, workers are also demanding more personalized and flexible work environments. Up to 85% would consider accepting a lower salary if it meant having a more personalized environment, highlighting a critical area for business investment. Knowledge workers prefer to have more control over how, where and when they work.
Neil Sawyer, Managing Director, HP UK and Ireland, summed up: “As employee expectations continue to shift, many businesses are yet to fully adapt their workplaces, culture, tools and leadership styles to meet these changing needs.”
Fortunately, businesses are beginning to recognise the need for change: three-quarters (76%) of leaders agreed that urgent action is required to improve employees’ relationships with work.
Sawyer added: “Business leaders must recognize that these decisions impact not only employees’ relationship with work, but also their overall well-being and long-term engagement.”