Only a quarter of desk-based workers in the UK say they have a healthy relationship with work

HP has announced new findings from its Work Relationship Index, a report that explores employees’ relationships with work around the world. The survey of more than 15,600 respondents across 12 countries, reveals that while the world’s relationship with work is strained and employee expectations are rising, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is seen as a key to unlocking better relationships with work. 

According to the report, there’s a notable strain in the relationship between individuals and work, with just 25 percent of UK desk workers reporting a healthy work relationship. Simultaneously, knowledge workers’ expectations of their relationship with work have surged, with 58 percent globally reporting that their expectations have increased over the past three years.

The survey suggests that AI’s potential to foster healthier relationships with work is well understood by the workforce – with business leaders and IT decision makers leading the way. 54 percent of knowledge workers and 72 percent of business leaders see the role AI can play in improving work-life balance (versus 43 percent and 72 percent in the UK).

In the UK 40 percent of desk workers think AI will make their job ‘easier’ (versus 58 percent globally) and 46 percent ‘more interesting’ (versus 57 percent globally).

“AI represents a significant opportunity to transform our work dynamics and unlock a more positive and productive environment for all,” stated Dave Shull, President of HP Workforce Solutions at HP Inc. “To foster greater understanding and acceptance of AI – and ensure employees know how to reap its benefits – business leaders must take the initiative to educate employees on AI’s potential and spearhead its effective integration.”

The role of leaders

The gap between business leaders, ITDMs and knowledge workers demonstrates the need for business leaders to effectively communicate the benefits of AI and educate employees on how to integrate it into their work processes – to help drive better business outcomes at the same time as strengthening individuals’ relationships with work. The survey showed that uncertainty persists regarding how best to use AI and take full advantage of it:

Almost 2 in 5 (41 percent) individuals in the UK feel unsure of when to use AI in the workplace.

With 72 percent of business leaders and 64 percent of desk workers in the UK advocating for proper AI training, there’s a clear call for organisations to prioritise upskilling initiatives to empower their workforce in embracing AI technologies.

“In an evolving work landscape where businesses are striving to unlock heightened engagement, retention, and productivity, as well as keeping their employees inspired, the strategic integration of AI emerges as a potent force for transformation,” said Stella Low, Chief Communications Officer, HP Inc. “Knowledge workers around the world are looking to senior leadership to show them how to navigate the AI terrain effectively: the stage is set for business leaders to seize the opportunity to both empower their employees and drive success.”