One-in-six admit to feeling awkward about giving gratitude in work

Workhuman®, the company revolutionising the way employees celebrate, connect with and appreciate each other in the workplace, today, on World Gratitude Day, announces the results of its latest Human Workplace Index. The new research found that almost one-in-six full-time employees admit to feeling awkward about giving gratitude, while 15% say they don’t always know how to show it.

The survey of 555 full-time employees in Ireland was commissioned by Workhuman and conducted by Pollfish to gain insights into gratitude in the workplace. The research, conducted in September 2023, found that 49% of workplaces are celebrating World Gratitude Day today and 71% of employees say they work in an environment where showing gratitude is highly valued.

Workhuman’s survey found that it is employees’ peers, rather than managers, who are most likely to dish out kudos. In fact, some 20% of employees say that they have not been thanked by their boss in a month or more. Workhuman’s research found that 41% of employees say they are most likely to receive gratitude from their peers, while 29% say their boss is the most likely person to show appreciation. Just 10% of employees say members of the C-Suite show the most gratitude at work.

When asked why they themselves might avoid showing gratitude to someone else in their workplace, 25% of employees say that for gratitude to be meaningful, it shouldn’t be given too frequently. However, Workhuman’s research indicates that gratitude is highly valued by employees and 23% of full-time employees (479,320 people*) admit to having left a job due to a lack of gratitude. Meanwhile, 33% would be willing to leave a current or future role if gratitude wasn’t shown.

The Human Workplace Index found that being shown appreciation at work has many positive impacts on employees’ attitudes to their job. Among the positive impacts, 59% said it makes them more likely to go the extra mile for colleagues, 57% say it makes them more eager to work in-person with their colleagues, and 49% say it makes them want to show gratitude to others.

In recognition of the positive impact of appreciation, the majority of employees say that monetary and non-monetary rewards have either increased or stayed the same in their workplace. Monetary rewards, such as salary raises and bonuses, have increased for 32% of employees and stayed the same for 55%. Similarly, non-monetary rewards, such as shout-outs and verbal praise, have increased for 29% of employees and stayed the same for 58%.

Workhuman’s survey found that workplaces in Ireland are more likely to celebrate World Gratitude than those in the US, with just 27% of workplaces celebrating it there, versus 49% in Ireland. In fact, employees in Ireland are so keen to celebrate World Gratitude Day in their workplace that 35% would ditch Valentine’s Day workplace celebrations over it, 31% would do away with Halloween and 30% would even scrap Christmas.

Niamh Graham, SVP Global Human Experience, Workhuman, said: “We all dedicate a huge proportion of our lives to work, so we want to be treated like it means something. It is encouraging to see that the majority of organisations value the power of appreciation and that World Gratitude Day is being celebrated by so many today.

“Gratitude brings people together and it is evidently something that is cherished by employees. This World Gratitude Day, I encourage business leaders to reflect on your workplace culture and ensure that you are creating an environment that makes saying ‘thank you’ easy and second nature to your employees. After all, where would we be without the humans in our workplaces – they cultivate and nurture culture and workplace experience, and showing them gratitude should be a key practice throughout your organisation.”

First HP Work Relationship Index Shows Majority of People Worldwide Have an Unhealthy Relationship with Work

HP Inc. today unveiled findings from its first HP Work Relationship Index, a comprehensive study that explores employees’ relationships with work globally. The study, which surveyed more than 15,600 respondents across various industries in 12 countries, reveals the world’s relationship with work is at a breaking point – and its effects are pervasive.

Commenting on the research, Val Gabriel, Managing Director at HP Ireland, said “There are various ways to strengthen our collective ways of working globally that are mutually beneficial for people and for business. Our new global research highlights this and indicates how people’s relationship with work can impact their personal and working lives.

For another successive quarter, Ireland has reached a new record for the highest number of people employed across the country than ever before. With this comes opportunity, as leaders we must understand there are always improvements that can be made to bridge any gaps. Successful companies are built on cultures that enable employees to excel in their careers while thriving outside of work.”

The study analysed 50+ aspects of people’s relationships with work, including the role of work in their lives, their skills, abilities, tools and workspaces, and their expectations of leadership. The study also examined the impact work has on employee well-being, productivity, engagement, and culture. Through this, HP developed its Work Relationship Index, which is a measure of the world’s relationship with work to be tracked over time. It found that just 27% of knowledge workers currently have a healthy relationship with work; more details on the Index can be found here.

Unhealthy Relationships with Work are Impacting Employees’ Well-being

In this first-of-its-kind study, HP engaged with business leaders, IT decision makers, and knowledge workers to gain insights into the factors that drive meaningful, productive, and purposeful work experiences. The findings spotlight the negative impacts an unhealthy relationship with work has on an employee’s life and an employer’s business.

When employees are not happy with their relationship with work, it takes a toll on business:

  • Morale and Engagement: Knowledge workers report less productivity (34%), more disengagement at work (39%) and greater feelings of disconnection (38%).
  • Retention: Even when employees feel neutral about their relationship with work, more than 71% consider leaving the company. When they’re not happy at all, that number rises to 91%.

Unhealthy relationships with work can impact employees’ well-being:

  • Mental: More than half (55%) of these employees struggle with their self-worth and mental health, reporting low self-esteem and feeling like they are a failure.
  • Emotional: These issues naturally affect other aspects of their lives, with 45% noting that their personal relationships with friends and family suffer, and more than half (59%) are too drained to pursue their personal passions.
  • Physical: Mental and emotional health can make it harder to maintain physical well-being. 62% of employees report trouble with maintaining healthy eating, working out and getting sufficient sleep.

 

Identifying the Drivers Behind a Healthy Relationship with Work

Employees’ expectations of work have changed significantly, particularly over the past two-to-three years, according to nearly 60% of respondents. 57% surveyed noted their expectations of how they are treated at work and in the workplace also have increased.

The research examined more than 50 factors contributing to a healthy relationship with work, identifying 6 core drivers that represent critical focus areas – and key imperatives – for business leaders, and comprise the Index that will be tracked over time.

  1. Fulfilment:Employees yearn for purpose, empowerment, and genuine connection to their work, but just 29% of knowledge workers currently experience these aspects consistently. To adapt to evolving workforce expectations, businesses must prioritise employee fulfilment.
  1. Leadership:New ways of working demand new leadership styles, according to 68% of business leaders; yet only 1 in 5 workers feel leaders have evolved their leadership styles accordingly.  Cultivating emotional intelligence and transparent, empathetic leadership is crucial for today’s workplace.

 

  1. People-centricity:Only 25% of knowledge workers consistently receive the respect and value they feel they deserve, and even fewer are experiencing the flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance they seek. To address this, leaders must put visible emphasis on putting people first and placing their teams at the centre of decision-making.
  1. Skills:While 70% of knowledge workers value strong power and technical skills, only 31% feel consistently confident in their proficiency in either. ‘Best-practice’ businesses have an opportunity to gain a vital skills-development and employee engagement edge by investing in holistic training and support.
  1. Tools:Today’s workers want a say in the technology and tools their employer provides– and want that technology to be inclusive. However, confidence that companies will implement the right tools to support hybrid work is low, at just 25%. No longer just a utility, the technology portfolio is emerging as an important driver of employee engagement, as well as connection and enablement.

 

  1. Workspace:Knowledge workers want a seamless experience as they move between work locations – and a choice in where they work each day. Effective hybrid workspaces, easy transitions, flexibility, and autonomy will be pivotal in demonstrating trust in employees and fostering a positive work experience.

 

Trust and Emotional Connection are Key in Attracting and Retaining Workers

The Work Relationship Index shows that this is a pivotal time to redefine the world’s relationships with work. Greater trust and emotional connection in the workplace were strong and recurring themes across the 6 core drivers.

Almost 3 in 4 business leaders acknowledge that emotionally intelligent leadership is the only way a leader can be successful going forward. Significantly, the study found that emotional intelligence – and increased trust and agency – hold considerable weight with employees: 83% say they’re willing to earn less money to find an employer that values these factors.

  • Strong workplace culture: Knowledge workers would take an 11% pay cut to work somewhere with empathetic, emotionally intelligent leadership, and above-average employee engagement and fulfilment.
  • Flexibility: The same group would give up 13% of their salary to work somewhere that lets them work where or when they want.

UNLEASH World Returns to Showcase Companies Transforming the Future of Work

UNLEASH, the fastest-growing HR events across Europe and the US, returns to Paris for its 11th year on 17-18 October, 2023. Organised by UNLEASH, a global digital media and events business dedicated to HR, technology, learning and recruitment leaders, the flagship UNLEASH World conference has been the epicentre for HR, recruitment, learning expertise and tech influence for the last decade. This year, it returns to explore the transformative power of technologies such as AI in shaping the future of work.

Set across 12 theaters, UNLEASH World attendees will hear from visionary keynote speakers including CEOs from L’Oréal, Aliaxis and Roullier Group, CHROs from Airbus, Spotify and Sodexo, and Rugby legends, Jonny Wilkinson, CBE and Serge Betsen. With a diverse range of keynote speakers, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities, UNLEASH World provides cutting-edge insights and best practices for everyone – from CEOs to HR leaders and executives.

“UNLEASH is the most influential HR event in the world, where attendees are given the opportunity to meet the who’s who of the industry from some of the most exciting brands and employers in the world – under one roof, over two days of face-to-face meetings,” said Marc Coleman, CEO and Founder at UNLEASH. “Massive thanks too to our Headline Sponsors who are the heartbeat of the HR Industry and help ensure UNLEASH is the go-to global event for HR Leaders, including: AWS, Bob, Deloitte, Eightfold, Phenom, Qualtrics, SAP SuccessFactors, Visier, Workday, and Workhuman”.

Through keynotes on the main stage and further breakout stages, attendees will gain on some of the most pressing topics including:

  • Creating an Exponential Organization in the Modern Era
  • The Adaptive Enterprise – HR Technology in the Age of AI
  • Tech & Human Harmony in a Hyper-Connected World
  • Harnessing the Power of Resilience and Reinvention
  • Mastering Employee Connection and the Social Contract in Today’s Talent Landscape

The speaker roster itself is star-studded with 200+ of the best in the HR industry with speakers including:

  • Jean-Claude Le Grand, CHRO, L’Oréal
  • Katarina Berg, CHRO, Spotify
  • Josh Bersin, Founder & CEO, The Josh Bersin Company
  • Natalia Wallenberg, CHRO, Ahold Delhaize
  • Salim Ismail, Founder, OpenExO
  • Anika Grant, CPO, Ubisoft
  • Thierry Baril, CHRO, Airbus
  • Beatriz Rodriguez, Chief Talent and DEIB Officer, Bayer
  • Reza Moussavian, VP of People Products, Zalando
  • Maud Alvarez-Pereyre, Chief People & Transformation Officer, LVMH
  • Andrew Elston, Global Head, Workforce Strategy Enablement, HSBC
  • Laura Hingel, Global Head of Talent & Employer Branding, Christian Dior
    Henrik Hansen, VP Global Head of Integrated People Services, Philips
  • Denise King, Vice President, Global Benefits and Payroll, Medtronic
  • Artur Nejmark, Head of HRIS Operations, Volvo Group

Introducing the UNLEASH World Startup Program: A veritable launchpad for trailblazing entrepreneurs in the HR and Future of Work. UNLEASH has been the launchpad for the future of HR Tech, this high-impact platform has already seen its network of startups raise an astounding €10 billion in funding. 2023 UNLEASH World Startup Award offers an unparalleled opportunity for early-stage companies to break through. Established in 2011, this accolade has proven to be more than just a trophy; it’s a gateway to funding and exponential growth. Our last four champions and runner-up’s secured game-changing funding within months. Those interested in entering the award can find out more here.

For more information, including the agenda and how to register for the event, visit https://www.unleash.ai/unleashworld.

How I Combine Family, Work, and Reading During Hours with Headway

I have always found balancing family, work, and personal growth challenging. One day, I came across Headway, an app that summarizes the best nonfiction books. It can be downloaded from App Store and Google Play, and it comes with different plan options, ranging from free to yearly subscriptions. This compact, easy-to-use tool seemed like a promising way to fit some learning into my packed schedule. In this review, I’ll share my experience using Headway, shedding light on its features and its impact on my life.

Daily routine with Headway

The way I start my day has been utterly transformed by Headway. After waking, I usually go for a morning workout, and this is when I listen to the crisp, 15-minute audiobook summaries. The professional voice actors bring the words to life, making the content engaging and simple to digest. I can learn and exercise simultaneously, a winning combination in my book.

But Headway is not just for mornings. Whether waiting in a queue or taking a quick break at work, I can quickly dive into a book summary. This adaptability has made learning effortless, allowing me to utilize what would otherwise be wasted moments. For instance, while cooking dinner for the family, I also enrich my mind with words of wisdom from renowned authors. Monday could be about career growth; Tuesday might be centered around improving personal relationships. Every day brings new insights and discoveries.

Main Features

Headway, available at makeheadway.com has many features that make learning a pleasurable and motivating experience. 

Diversity of themes

One standout feature is the wide variety of topics covered. The app is not confined to business or self-help genres. Instead, it offers a spectrum of topics like productivity, health, leadership, and more. This range keeps me interested and eager to explore more.

Ease of learning

One feature that genuinely motivates me is the gamification of learning. Earning streaks, receiving badges for completing challenges, and tracking my progress make learning interactive and fun. I’m playing a game where the prize is personal growth.

Additionally, the app’s ability to transform key insights into interactive flashcards is a great feature for enhancing retention. It’s like having a personal note-taker, saving me the trouble of writing down and organizing the information myself.

The essence of the Headway app lies in its high-quality content. Each summary is a carefully distilled version of an insightful nonfiction book. These concise nuggets of wisdom allow me to gain a deep understanding without reading hundreds of pages.

Reminders

The app’s spaced repetition feature is another element I greatly appreciate. It is a gentle reminder to revisit what I’ve learned, reinforcing my knowledge over time. This unique method ensures that important insights don’t just fleetingly pass through my mind but get deeply embedded.

Conclusion

To sum it up, Headway has been a revelation for me, transforming how I approach personal growth. It has made learning feel less like a chore and an enjoyable part of my day. With Headway, my journey toward continuous self-improvement will be a successful and fulfilling.

Remote and flexible work are the most in-demand non-financial benefits, says new research

Despite ongoing calls from business and government leaders for a reduction in working from home, employees have ranked flexible hours and working location amongst the top benefits they seek from their employers.

Research commissioned by Zoom of 1,000 UK knowledge workers found that flexible hours and scheduling (78%) and flexible work location (69%) were ranked second and fourth as workplace perks. With the cost of living crisis continuing, financial incentives – competitive pay and compensation packages (84%) and competitive benefits (78%) – made up the top four.

The findings, part of Zoom’s Workplace Benefits Preferences Survey in partnership with Morning Consult, found that flexibility is vital for UK knowledge workers. The majority (87%) are more likely to want to work for a company that offers remote or flexible work than one that doesn’t. A similar number (88%) also say that flexible working makes them a happier employee, while three quarters (75%) would consider leaving their current role if they could have increased flexibility elsewhere. Around half (52%) see remote and flexible working as a must-have for their roles and 46% see it as a perk.

Phil Perry, Head of EMEA North at Zoom said, “With large numbers of workers ready to switch jobs if they aren’t offered the flexibility they need, businesses that fail to offer a choice on where and how their teams work could be walking into a trap. At a time when many organisations are under pressure to reduce costs while delivering more, being able to offer benefits like flexible working that require little additional investment is a simple way to keep teams happy and motivated.”

Although flexible working is often seen as the preserve of younger generations, the desire for flexible location is balanced across age groups: 69% of Gen Z/Under 30s ranked this as important, compared to 71% of Millennials, 69% of Gen X and 70% amongst Older Gen X/Over 50s (Boomers). Demand for flexible hours is higher amongst Millennials and older generations, given changing life needs – 69% of Gen Z/Under 30s reported this as important, compared to 80% of Millennials, 78% of Gen X and 78% of Older Gen X/Over 50s (Boomers).

The research also suggests that the classic 9-5 model is no longer the most effective way to work, no matter the stage of life the employee is in. Across generations, 92% prefer working hybrid or remotely, compared to 8% who prefer working in the office full time. This figure remains relatively constant across generations:

·       Gen Z/Under 30s: 90% prefer hybrid/remote and 9% in person

·       Millennials: 93% prefer hybrid/remote and 6% in person

·       Gen X: 92% prefer hybrid/remote and 8% prefer in person

·       Older Gen X/Over 50s (Boomers): 90% prefer hybrid/remote and 9% in person.

Perry continues: “Thanks to the technology platforms available, employers can provide their teams with tools that give them the ability to manage work commitments and connect with their colleagues, when and where works best for them. Creating a working style based on individual preference is a priority across generations, and businesses need to avoid one size fits all approaches as they build out workforce strategies. At Zoom, we’ve invested in AI tools such as Zoom IQ to enable employers to manage, coach and mentor their remote workforce much more effectively.”

Zoom allows organisations of all sizes to implement the best tools to enable a hybrid workforce. Whether employees work in an office, remotely, or a combination of both, Zoom’s all-in-one collaboration platform allows businesses to focus on productivity and efficiency while allowing employees the flexibility to work when, how, and where they are most productive without compromising the quality of work or collaboration.

Methodology

This survey was conducted among 4,000 Knowledge Workers across the following markets: US, UK, DE, AUS, SG. Knowledge workers were defined as clerical workers who have a full-time job in the private sector, in government, or in the non-profit sector.

This survey was fielded among those in the US, UK, DE, AUS, SG from February 3– 24, 2023.  Data in this survey were weighted to match an approximate proportion of knowledge workers per country. The margin of error for this study is +/- 2% for all countries, +/- 3% for the US, UK, and DE, and +/- 4% for AUS and SG. The margin of error is smaller within subgroups.

HP Leads in Hybrid Work with Future-Ready Portfolio

This week at the Amplify™ Partner Conference, HP Inc announced new products and solutions to usher in the next era of hybrid work for everyone with a comprehensive set of computing solutions for hybrid flexibility.

With only 22%of workers describing themselves as ‘thriving’ in hybrid work, it’s clear companies are still figuring out how to make hybrid work. “Many companies want to move past the ‘forced return’ to the office era of hybrid work but the challenge is, they are unsure how to get the right balance,” said Val Gabriel, Managing Director of HP Ireland. “We believe the future is hybrid flexibility, which delivers the best of the home and the office to workers everywhere.”

According to HP’s Future of Work study, 80%of workers want to be in the office some of the time, but many companies continue to struggle to get workers back in the office. HP research suggests that the most significant barrier to a return to office is a sub-optimal technology experience. In fact, 89% say technology is the most important factor driving return to office decisions. Similarly, of those who report thriving in hybrid work, 90%believe that access to the right technology and tools leads to a positive work experience.To accelerate employees’ return to work, the right technology is required for optimal work setups, enabling success for companies and their employees.

“Hybrid work does not equal remote work. True hybrid work creates a great culture that connects people, raises productivity, and builds engagement. Technology is the biggest factor in facilitating that. We’re going big with innovations to help keep people connected, productive, and secure,” said Val Gabriel.

HP Presence Enriches Collaboration Experiences in the Era of Hybrid Flexibility

Since 2021, HP Presence has enriched video conferencing experiences on the PC with intuitive collaboration innovations for people to truly feel connected while working together at home or in the office. HP Presence will be available across all HP commercial notebooks – from ProBook and Dragonfly series to Z by HP mobile workstations. This provides companies the critical solutions for revitalising collaboration, culture, innovation, and productivity to make working in or out of the office a seamless experience. Innovations include multi-camera experiences enabling users to be shown while whiteboarding at the same time and Auto Camera Select for face tracking makes meetings more engaging and natural. Work Seamlessly at Home, Office, Meeting Spaces, and On-the-Go.

The next generation of HP EliteBook and ProBook devices​are equipped for premium collaboration with HP Presence and next-level productivity. As users move throughout the day from home to office to meeting rooms, these devices are designed for hybrid flexibility:

  • HP EliteBook 800 and 805 G10 Series PCs: Featuring the world’s most advanced business convertible for collaboration,[vii] the lineup makes virtual meetings authentic and interactive with HP Presence technology.
  • HP EliteBook 600 and 605 G10 Series PCs: Equipping workforces with the latest technology at a cost-effective price point, the premium design, collaboration experiences, manageability, and security will empower users to be heard and seen whether in the office or remotely.
  • HP ProBook 400 and 405 G10 Series PCs: Enabling SMB leaders and employees to thrive in hybrid while getting the most out of their IT investment by offering built-in collaboration tools for productivity, multi-layered security, and a durable, serviceable chassis.
As the world’s most advanced business convertible for collaboration,5 the HP Elite x360 830 G10 empowers hybrid workers to unlock creation and collaboration from anywhere.

The HP EliteBook 645 G10 provides hybrid workers with the connectivity options and configurable ports they need to stay productive in the office, at home, and on the go.

Optimized for hybrid work, the HP ProBook 450 G10 features commercial-grade performance, built-in collaboration tools for productivity, and multi-layered security.

 

 

High-Performance Designed for Hybrid Flexibility

HP reinvigorates innovation with a focus on technology and solutions that not only deliver high-performance but address new challenges with hybrid work when collaborating on large projects with complex workflows. Since 2019, 71% of companies have increased workstation deployments to future-proof workforces with reliability, expandability, and remote access.[viii] Z by HP with HP Presence provides the collaboration tools and high-performance compute solutions needed to power today’s workflows.

The latest ZBook G10 mobile workstations — ZBook Firefly, ZBook Power, ZBook Studio, ZBook Fury — give power, performance, and battery life from anywhere.

ZBook Firefly G10 and ZBook Power G10: Both new workstations combine pro-level performance with mobility. Users can stay productive with pro-grade components, enhanced collaboration features, and color-accurate displays — everything needed to take on projects from anywhere.. The ZBook Firefly and ZBook Power will be the first in the ZBook portfolio to now offer AMD Ryzen™ and Ryzen™ PRO processors for mobile.

ZBook Studio G10: From 3D design to data science and AI computing, this PC delivers. Packed with pro performance in a sleek PC that fits in your bag, the ZBook Studio is engineered for building complex models, rendering in real-time or visualizing data, on the go.

ZBook Fury G10: Tackles intense workflows from anywhere by offering a desktop-class Intel Core HX processor for pro performance. The new ZBook Fury can simultaneously rendering 3D models, running simulations, analyzing large data sets, or training machine learning models from anywhere.

The recently announced Z by HP Performance Desktops include the world’s most powerful single socket workstation with 4 GPUs, enabling complex, data-rich workflows for hybrid workplaces. These entry-level desktop workstations are for users who want to step into power and performance while remaining agile with remote access for high-end workflows.

The Z2 Mini G9Z2 SFF G9Z2 Tower G9, and Z1 Tower G9 are built for designers, engineers, and students working in multiple applications at once. The new HP Anyware Remote System Controller will now also be supported on the Z2 Mini G9, Z2 SFF G9, and Z2 Tower G9. As the world’s most advanced remote management peripheral, it is built for out-of-band management, allowing IT departments to monitor and manage a workstation fleet from anywhere. The Z by HP entry desktop workstation portfolio continues to bring performance and broad expandability to keep users in the creative zone.

Be Seen, Be Heard, and Be Productive in Any Workspace

Hybrid work is not just working remotely – it’s about delivering an experience that works seamlessly for those in the room and for those joining remotely. HP and Poly are now delivering the world’s most comprehensive set of commercial video conferencing devices for hybrid work.

The latest Poly software update, Poly Video OS 4.0, delivers powerful experiences like AI-driven multi-camera mode that can keep multiple speakers in the frame for the most engaging remote collaboration experience. The Poly Video OS 4.0 is now available across the Poly Studio X Series of video bars and the Poly G7500 modular video conferencing system. The Poly Studio X70 is the first and only video bar for large rooms certified for Microsoft Teams, along with the Poly G7500. Additionally, the Poly Studio X Android-based video bars are available and certified for Google Meet.

Whether you’re taking a personal call, a conference call, or listening to your favorite playlist, the recently announced Poly Voyager Free 60 Series of wireless earbuds provide an elevated pro-grade experience. HP is introducing an entry-level model – the Poly Voyager Free 60 – designed for use with mobile devices and comes with a standard charge case. The series includes three versions: the Poly Voyager Free 60, Poly Voyager Free 60 UC, and Poly Voyager 60+ UC. The Poly Voyager Free 60 UC and 60+ UC versions are now certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom. All models are compatible with leading audio and video conferencing applications.

With nearly 70% of mouse users experiencing pain around the wrist, the HP 920/925 Ergonomic Vertical Mouse helps keep your hand in a more relaxed, natural upright position. The world’s most versatile ergonomic vertical wireless mouse, the HP 920/925 features a detachable wrist rest to make it just as useable on the go. Users can feel good about its recycled materials and plastic-free packaging.

When you want to be as connected to your peripherals on the road as you are at home, stay powered and productive with the HP 4K USB-C Multiport Hub. With an ultra-compact design, the multiport hub features four versatile USB-C® ports[xv] with multi-OS support – a 65W port to power laptops, two ports to connect and charge accessories, and another port to charge or connect to a 4K display with full functionality.

With DECT™ [xvi]considered one of the most reliable forms of mobile communications for retail and verticals[xvii], the Poly Rove 20 wireless DECT™ IP phone delivers the freedom to move and the flexibility to scale as companies grow. Built for on-site employees, the Poly Rove 20 is an entry-level single-cell DECT handset with robust and secure communications and connectivity with an extensive range. Equipped with up to 35 hours of battery life, it pairs easily with the Poly B1 Base Station to support concurrent calls and expand voice range. The Rove 20 handset is compatible with all Rove IP Phones, utilizing the latest standards in DECT™ wireless security so you can speak freely.

Part of the recently announced Poly Voyager Free 60 Series line-up of pro-grade wireless earbuds, HP is introducing an entry-level model designed for mobile devices with a standard charge case – the Poly Voyager Free 60.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Designed to reduce muscle activity by 12%, the HP 920/925 Ergonomic Vertical Mouse with detachable wrist rest is certified by the HP Human Factors team and US Ergonomics

 

 

 

 

 

Wherever you find yourself in the world, get a powerful connection anywhere with the HP 4K USB-C Multiport Hub.

Expanding the Boundaries for Remote PC Management

Hybrid work has made remote PC management at scale more complex, yet more essential. To address this challenge, HP is announcing HP Wolf Connect an IT management connectivity solution that provides a highly resilient and secure connection[ to remote PCs, enabling IT to manage devices even when powered down or offline. Using a cellular-based network, HP Wolf Connect’s robust connectivity helps ensure IT teams can readily manage a dispersed hybrid workforce. It can reduce the time and effort needed to resolve support tickets, secure data from loss or theft to mitigate a potential breach and optimize asset management.

HP Wolf Connect with HP Wolf’s Protect and Trace is the world’s first software service capable of locating, locking, and erasing a PC remotely, even when it’s turned off or disconnected from the Internet. This capability protects sensitive data on the move and helps lower IT costs by reducing the need for PC remediation or replacement.

HP Home Delivery Streamlines Hybrid Worker Setup

As IT teams now manage hybrid workers both at home and in the office, setting up employees with the right devices wherever they are in the world can be an unreliable, complicated, and inconvenient process.

As part of HP Logistics Services, the HP Home Delivery solution securely delivers HP commercial PCs, displays, and peripherals  directly to employee residential addresses across the globe so hybrid workers can get their devices conveniently up and running right out of the box. Updates to HP Home Delivery enable more efficient ordering, tracking, and proof of delivery.

 

Pricing and Availability

  • The Poly Voyager Free 60 Series is available for pre-order on Poly.com, and expected to ship in late April. The Voyager Free 60 UC is available for €261, and the Poly Voyager Free 60+ UC is available for €307.
  • The HP Elite x360 830 G10 is available at hp.com for €1,320.
  • The HP EliteBook 830 G10, HP EliteBook 840 G10, and HP EliteBook 860 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €1,210.
  • The HP EliteBook 835 G10, HP EliteBook 845 G10, and HP EliteBook 865 G10 are expected to be available in May. Pricing will be made available closer to product availability.
  • The HP EliteBook 630 G10, HP EliteBook 640 G10, and HP EliteBook 650 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €990.
  • The HP ProBook 440 G10 and HP ProBook 450 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €935.
  • The HP ProBook 445 G10 and HP ProBook 455 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €825.
  • The ZBook Firefly G10 is available starting at €1,150 at hp.com.
  • The HP 920/925 Ergonomic Vertical Mouse is expected to be available in May for €139.99.
  • The HP 4K USB-C Multiport Hub is expected to be available in May for €79.99.

41% of tech leaders think their company will work 100% remotely in the future

Storm Technology, the business technology consultancy, today announces the findings of a new survey which reveals that 41% of IT leaders think their company will become 100% remote in the future.

The survey – conducted by Tech Central and involving more than 100 IT decision-makers from larger enterprises and businesses across Ireland – found that over two thirds (67%) think their organisation is currently equipped to support such a move.

Some 81% of respondents think the way their company is currently working is effective and the same proportion think their IT department is adequately supporting remote/hybrid working for their organisation.

However, 65% don’t think their company is using remote/hybrid working solutions to their full potential and over half (58%) don’t think virtual communications are an adequate replacement for human interaction.

In terms of other challenges stemming from remote/hybrid working, IT leaders see supporting company culture as the biggest, cited by 42%. Other leading challenges include providing secure access to company systems and information (39%), training staff to use existing technologies to the fullest (39%), enabling collaboration across locations (35%), and managing remote devices (31%).

As for the long-term issues arising from this way of working, 46% said spending too much time in meetings. Meanwhile, 39% cited working longer hours and some 32% said having to spend time on wellness to prevent burnout. Thirty per cent of IT leaders also see not staying ahead with the latest tools to do the job as a long-term problem of remote/hybrid working.

While the research found that its impact was largely positive across the areas of staff wellbeing (80%), employee experience (77%) and business growth (69%), this was less so when it came to talent and culture. Just over half (54%) felt the impact of remote/hybrid working was positive on attracting and retaining talent, while only 35% believed it has had a positive impact on company culture.

Arguably, this may stem from challenges relating to collaboration across locations. The leading barriers to collaboration were revealed as a lack of digital skills (48%), people having the time to collaborate (45%), and a lack of face-to-face meetings (44%).

Furthermore, a quarter (25%) of IT leaders cited securing communication platforms as an obstacle to collaboration and almost a fifth (17%) identified the impaired ability to share information as a barrier to same.

Speaking about the findings, Mike Lillis, Chief Commercial Officer at Storm Technology, said: “Of course the workplace of today is vastly different to what we had five years ago, and our research suggests that it will continue to evolve – perhaps even becoming fully remote for some organisations.

“Yet, the core of what makes a successful organisation is the same – enabled, engaged and empowered people. If companies are to make remote and hybrid working a success, they need both the technology and the strategy in place. If people lack the means and knowledge to collaborate, they cannot work effectively.

“In turn, this jeopardises not just service delivery and business but also company culture and employee wellbeing as people end up working harder and longer. Business leaders must therefore implement the technologies and provide the training required to create a productive, proactive, and positive workplace. Only then can they make a real impact for their people and their organisations as a whole.”

To find out more about this research, check out Storm Technology’s Modern Workplace Report 2023.

Tech Review – EMEET Meeting Capsule 360° Video Conference Camera with 8 Mics, Hi-Fi Speaker

When it comes to working from home or the office conference calls can be part of the daily routine and it happens quite often here with myself and having the right tools is essential to do the job at hand but how many tools do you need to get the job done, you could look at this as an all in one package though by looking at it you might not see how it works and this is what makes this piece of kit something different and quite unique and it is pretty cool too.

We have tested many conference kits here and this is the latest offering from the company who strive to give us good products at affordable prices and we use some of their kit still today and they work really well which is something to take note of.

The product itself is super robust and perhaps bigger than one would be use to having at home but maybe no the case in an office environment, it is simple to use with a remote control that is also simple to use and has all the buttons down one side of the device where there is LED status lights on the opposite site and then up top is where the magic happens the 360 degree panoramic HD camera that can be also turned off and muted like the audio when not in use.

OK so how does this work, well there is plenty of AI here involved which is pretty cool and it is a simple set-up and works cross platform and you can download some additional software if you like but there is no need to it is a plug and play product which what people like to see with no hassle to get moving. You have one cable to connect to your PC it will not work with a mobile phone  nor can you ad and external mic and you have on power cable for the device itself so it is not one of those systems that have wires for each individual at the table or product to match.

There is a cool speaker built in too which you can use during the conference calls etc or just even as a personal speaker and it has a good sound with some nice bass built in.

There is 5 modes of use here which covers all aspects.

1. Collaboration Mode

Under EMEET Meeting Capsule’s collaboration mode, all attendees’ 360° panoramic picture and main 1-3 speaker’ split screens will be shown on the same screen simultaneously. In the split screen, one speaker will be tracked and displayed, and when she/he isn’t talking anymore, she/he will be removed from the screen, ensuring the new speaker becomes the next on-screen speaker. By using this mode, all participants concentrate on not only the speakers but also the listeners.2. Speech Mode

2. Speech Mode

Under EMEET Meeting Capsule’s speech mode, all attendees’ 360° panorama picture and only 1 speaker’s split slide will be displayed at the same time on the screen. If the former speaker stops talking, the device will automatically center on the latter speaker. Besides, the image can be adjusted via the remote control. In a speech occasion, the conference room webcam is the best choice to deliver the speaker’s expression content.

3. Classic Mode

Under EMEET Meeting Capsule’s classic mode, people in front of the 180° wide-angle device will be shown in a non-split screen. For a stabler and clearer image, the AI capturing tech is closed here. The webcam with remote control can be used to adjust the image and degree. The classic mode’s FOV (Field of View) is 180/120/60 degrees, being able to be adjusted by the remote control. The conference webcam is great for medium to large meetings.

4. Spotlight Mode

Under EMEET Meeting Capsule’s spotlight mode, the conference webcam becomes a personal video conference camera, which means you can choose the part you would like to show on the non-split screen. Auto capturing tech is forbidden here for a high-definition imaging. Both remote control and eMeetLink can be used to change the FOV between 60-95 degree. You are the only one who enjoys the 3 in 1 smart video conference system in the spotlight mode.

5. In-privacy Mode

Under EMEET Meeting Capsule’s privacy mode, you will enjoy both electronic privacy and physical privacy. To cut off the image transmission, the electronic 360 webcam flips the lens to 0° and the whole physical cap turns to 0°. Meanwhile, the microphone will quit picking up voice immediately. However, the 10W HIFI speaker continues to work to deliver the other side’s voice. Privacy mode is frequently used during your side’s negotiation and decision time.

Overall this is a one stop shop with less cables cameras and more for that important conference meeting be it at home or in the office and it is simple to set up and get going meaning a clutter free environment and excellent quality meetings. The cohe st might be an issue for some here but when you think about it one product can do the work of multiple here and for me this is a win and from testing with personal work meetings and so on the people at the other end agree.

Features

  • Includes everyone: 360° panoramic 1080P HD camera, 8 mics and 90dB Hi-Fi speaker.
  • AI-powered autofocus: Intelligent multi-modal algorithm autofocuses on active talkers responsively.
  • 5 video modes: Swivel lens with 5 video modes on your command for various scenarios.
  • Optimized voice pickup: Exclusive VoiceIA® DSP algorithm features noise reduction, human voice enhancement and full duplex.
  • Plug and play: Launch meetings instantly without the need for cell phones or WI-FI.
  • Smart coverage: Extend coverage from 18ft to 36ft when daisy chained with our signature speakerphone M3.

BUY

Video Review

How Legal Professionals Can Help Tech Businesses in Their Work

As a tech business, you likely have a lot on your plate. Between developing new products and services, expanding your reach to new markets, and attending industry events, it’s hard to find time to focus on everything. That’s where legal professionals can help. By working with a lawyer who understands the tech industry, you can outsource some of the legwork and focus on what you do best – running your business. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the ways that legal professionals can help tech businesses in their work.

How can tech businesses benefit from legal professionals – Understanding the benefits

Legal assistance is not something people look forward to. In fact, in most cases, it’s something people dread. This is usually because they either don’t understand the benefits or they’ve had a bad experience in the past. As a tech business, you may not have the time or resources to handle everything on your own, which is where legal professionals can help. Furthermore, whether you decide to hire a law firm that pays after a win to represent you, or you decide to use an online legal service, you want to make sure that the attorneys can actually bring something to the table. Moreover, you’ll want to be absolutely clear about what you need help with before you start working with any legal professionals. Here are some of the ways that legal professionals can help tech businesses:

Contract review and negotiation

One of the most common ways that legal professionals can help tech businesses is by reviewing and negotiating contracts. This includes both customer contracts and vendor contracts. If you’re not familiar with the law, it’s easy to make mistakes when drafting or negotiating contracts. This can have serious consequences down the road, so it’s best to leave it to the experts. Many reviews or negotiations you will face as a business will be time-sensitive, so it’s important to have a lawyer on retainer that you can rely on and you might want to check out some law firm software.

Intellectual property protection

Another way that legal professionals can help tech businesses is by protecting their intellectual property. This includes trademarks, copyrights, and patents. If you don’t have a strong understanding of intellectual property law, you could be putting your business at risk. By working with a lawyer, you can make sure that your intellectual property is properly protected. Most importantly, you can avoid infringement lawsuits, which can be extremely costly.

Employment law advice

Employment law is another area where legal professionals can help tech businesses. This includes advice on hiring, firing, and everything in between. If you don’t have a strong understanding of employment law, you could be putting your business at risk. By working with a lawyer, you can make sure that you’re compliant with all the relevant laws. Furthermore, you can avoid costly lawsuits, as well as the hassle of dealing with the government.

Data privacy and security

Legal professionals can also help tech businesses with data privacy and security. This is an increasingly important issue in the tech industry. With the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) coming into effect, it’s more important than ever to make sure that you’re compliant with all the relevant laws. By working with a lawyer, you can make sure that your data is properly protected.

Tax advice

This is a complex area, and if you’re not familiar with the law, it’s easy to make mistakes. By working with a lawyer, you can make sure that you’re compliant with all the relevant laws. Furthermore, you can minimize your tax liability and maximize your profits. Taxes also tend to be one of the most complex and time-consuming aspects of running a business, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.

Regulatory compliance

Another way that legal professionals can help tech businesses is by ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. This includes both national and international regulations. If you’re not familiar with the law, it’s easy to make mistakes when complying with regulations. This can have serious consequences, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.

Marketing law advice

Last but not least, legal professionals can also help tech businesses with marketing law. This includes advice on advertising, promotions, and privacy. If you don’t have a strong understanding of marketing law, you could be putting your business at risk. By working with a lawyer, you can make sure that your marketing efforts are compliant with all the relevant laws.

As you can see, there are many ways that legal professionals can help tech businesses. If you’re not familiar with the law, it’s best to work with a lawyer to ensure that your business is compliant with all the relevant laws. By doing so, you can avoid costly mistakes and lawsuits.