Emmanuel OchayiHP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) has unveiled the findings of its inaugural HP Work Relationship Index, shedding light on the precarious state of work relationships worldwide.
This comprehensive study, conducted across 12 countries with over 15,600 respondents from diverse industries, highlights a concerning trend in the changing dynamics of work and its far-reaching consequences.
HP’s President and CEO, Enrique Lores, emphasized the need for a balanced approach to work, stating, “There is a huge opportunity to strengthen the world’s relationship with work in ways that are both good for people and good for business.”
He further asserted that successful companies should prioritize cultures that promote both career excellence and personal well-being.
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The study delved into over 50 aspects of work relationships, encompassing work-life balance, skills, leadership, and employee expectations. It culminated in the Work Relationship Index, a measure that reflects the global workforce’s relationship with work. Shockingly, the index reveals that a mere 27% of knowledge workers have a healthy relationship with work.
Unhealthy work relationships are found to have detrimental impacts on employees’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The study identifies the following consequences:
- Morale and Engagement: Knowledge workers experiencing an unhealthy work relationship report 34% less productivity, 39% more disengagement, and a 38% greater sense of disconnection.
- Retention: Even those with neutral feelings towards their work relationship show a willingness to leave their current positions, with over 71% considering it. This number rises to a staggering 91% for those who are unhappy.
- Well-being: Mental and emotional health issues affect other areas of life, with 55% struggling with self-worth and mental health, 45% experiencing strained personal relationships, and 59% lacking the energy to pursue personal passions. This mental and emotional toll also extends to physical health, with 62% of employees reporting difficulties maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The study underscores that employees’ expectations of work have undergone significant transformations, particularly in the past two to three years. A substantial 60% of respondents acknowledge this shift, citing increased expectations regarding how they are treated at work.
The research identifies six core drivers for a healthy work relationship:
- Fulfillment: Only 29% of knowledge workers consistently experience purpose, empowerment, and genuine connection to their work. To meet evolving workforce expectations, businesses must prioritize employee fulfillment through increased agency.
- Leadership: While 68% of business leaders acknowledge the need for new leadership styles, only one in five workers believe leaders have adapted accordingly. Transparent, empathetic leadership is crucial for the modern workplace.
- People-centricity: A mere 25% of knowledge workers feel they receive the respect and value they deserve, and even fewer experience the sought-after flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance.
- Skills: Although 70% of knowledge workers value strong skills, only 31% consistently feel confident in their proficiency. Businesses should invest in holistic training and support.
- Tools: Employees desire a say in the technology and tools provided by their employers, yet confidence in companies to implement suitable tools is low at 25%.
Workspace: Knowledge workers seek seamless transitions between work locations and the freedom to choose their daily workplace. Effective hybrid workspaces, flexibility, and autonomy are pivotal in fostering positive work experiences.
Trust and emotional connection have emerged as key factors in attracting and retaining workers. The study shows that 83% of employees are willing to forgo higher salaries for employers who value emotional intelligence and increased trust and agency.
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