Impact of individual and organizational factors on career outcomes: mediating roles of AI adoption and remote working in the digital workplace

Purpose This study investigates the impact of individual characteristics and organizational factors on career outcomes in the digital workplace, with a focus on the mediating roles of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and remote working. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research design was employed, using data collected from 378 respondents through an online survey. Structural equation modeling (SEM) using AMOS was applied to test the hypothesized relationships among individual characteristics, organizational factors, AI adoption, remote working and career-related outcomes such as employee productivity, perceived employability and career sustainability. Findings The results reveal that individual characteristics significantly influence both AI adoption and remote working. Conversely, organizational factors do not significantly affect either. AI adoption positively impacts career sustainability, employee productivity and perceived employability. Remote work has a significant positive effect on employee productivity. Mediation analysis indicates that AI adoption partially mediates the relationship between individual characteristics and employee productivity, while remote working does not mediate the relationship between organizational factors and productivity. Practical implications The findings offer insights for organizations aiming to enhance employee career outcomes through digital transformation. Emphasis should be placed on supporting AI adoption and flexible work practices, especially for individuals with strong personal adaptability and digital skills. Originality/value This study contributes to the growing body of research on digital workplace transformation by integrating AI adoption and remote working as mediators between individual/organizational factors and career outcomes. It provides empirical evidence from an emerging market context, highlighting the central role of individual agency in leveraging digital tools for career development.