As the dust settles on the traditional 9-to-5 office setup, global tech giant, HP, has painted a compelling picture of what the future of work looks like, one that demands flexibility, personalisation, and smart technology.

In a recent thought leadership piece titled: “The Future of Work: The Evolving Workforce Experience,” the Southern Africa Managing Director at HP, Yesh Surjoodeen, underscores a seismic shift in how employees engage with their work environments.

Drawing on insights from HP’s global Work Relationship Index, which surveyed over 15,000 respondents, Surjoodeen reveals a workforce that is no longer content with rigid structures or outdated tools.

According to the Index, 65 per cent of knowledge workers and business leaders now expect a tailored work experience.

In an eye-opening revelation, 87 per cent of employees would willingly sacrifice a portion of their salary for a more customised work environment—with Gen Zers ready to give up nearly 20 per cent of their earnings.

“Tailored work experiences aren’t just a perk—they’re becoming a requirement. Employees want tools and environments that align with their unique workstyles, and they’re placing real value on that,” Surjoodeen said.

Nearly 70 per cent of workers say it would strengthen their relationship with work and boost their well-being, while 68 per cent say it would motivate them to stay longer with their employers.

Hybrid work, once a stopgap solution, is now an entrenched aspect of modern professional life. This shift is pushing companies to move beyond basic connectivity, investing instead in intelligent technology that enhances collaboration, inclusivity, and security.

HP is leading this charge with innovations like the Poly Studio V12 USB Video Bar, which integrates AI features such as Acoustic Fence and Noise Block AI, helping remote teams stay focused and connected.

Enhanced video tools offer automatic framing, lighting adjustments, and background suppression, making virtual meetings smoother and more engaging.

The data is clear: connected workers are three times more likely to feel a sense of belonging and fulfilment compared to their disconnected peers.

With the traditional office giving way to flexible work environments, HP’s research reveals a growing demand for adaptive technology.

About 72 per cent of knowledge workers say having access to tech that matches their work style is critical—yet only 27 per cent consistently experience such support from their employers.

Surjoodeen stressed the urgency of this gap: “Only by embracing intelligent, user-centric tech can businesses empower their people to perform at their best, wherever they are.”

Surjoodeen said sustainability is also climbing up the corporate agenda as companies are increasingly integrating eco-friendly practices into their tech lifecycles, from energy-efficient devices to designs that minimise environmental impact.

HP stated that organisations that thrive will be those that prioritise tailored experiences, invest in smart tools, and create environments that support well-being, flexibility, and productivity in equal measure.