New research from HP Inc.’s 2025 Work Relationship Index shows a significant shift in workplace priorities, with four in five Gen Z employees willing to accept lower pay for greater flexibility and autonomy.
The study highlights that younger professionals are challenging traditional work models, seeking more purpose-driven, balanced careers, and leaving companies that fail to meet their expectations. “Gen Z and Millennials, now the majority of the global workforce, are reshaping work with new expectations,” HP noted. The report also found that 51% of Gen Z workers maintain side hustles and are leading AI adoption in the workplace.
Competitive pay alone is no longer enough to attract or retain talent. Company culture, flexibility, and meaningful work have become critical factors for engagement. HP’s research shows that four in ten knowledge workers use AI daily, and employees with access to work-provided AI tools are twice as likely to report a healthy relationship with work. Yet only 21% of knowledge workers feel proficient in AI, compared with 56% of IT decision makers.
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Yesh Surjoodeen, Managing Director of HP Southern Africa, said: “Work should enable people to flourish, not just fulfill a financial function. The Index shows declining satisfaction, but 85% of improvement factors are within business control. Inclusive leadership, flexible models, and AI tools can rebuild stronger relationships with work.”
The 2025 HP Work Relationship Index reveals that only 20% of knowledge workers report a healthy relationship with work, down 8 points from 2024. Business leaders saw the steepest declines, pointing to a crisis of connection and confidence at the top—but also highlighting an opportunity for companies to lead change.