Unraveling the AI enigma: how perceptions of artificial intelligence forge career adaptability through the crucible of career insecurity and skill development

Purpose Artificial intelligence (AI) integration in the workplace yields positive outcomes, yet its impact on employees remains incompletely understood. This study aims to examine employee viewpoints regarding AI and its influence on employee career attitudes, behaviors and skill enhancement. The author examines how employees perceive AI and its impact on their career adaptability within the context of career self-management. Design/methodology/approach The researchers conducted hypothesis testing using AMOS; data was collected from 255 software house employees working in Pakistan. This study is time-lagged in nature. Data on AI perception was collected at time 1. After three weeks, data was collected for hypotheses related to mediation, and employees filled out a questionnaire related to career adaptability at time 3 with the interval of three weeks. Findings This study indicates a strong correlation between beliefs about AI dominance in the job market and increased career adaptability. The researchers discovered that career insecurity and skill development are pathways that elucidate employees’ perceptions of AI dominating their decisions regarding career adaptability. Originality/value This study demonstrates that AI perception has the potential to influence employees, motivating them to enhance their abilities and pursue adaptable career trajectories. The study indicates that employees’ unfavorable perceptions of AI can result in behaviors associated with career adaptability.