Influences of artificial intelligence (AI) awareness on career competency and job burnout

Purpose The prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI) has considerably affected management and society. This paper aims to explore its potential impact on hospitality industry employees, bringing enlightenment to both employees and managers. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from a survey of 432 employees who worked in full-service hotels in China. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data. Findings Results presented a positive relationship between AI awareness and job burnout. No significant direct relationship was found between AI awareness and career competencies. Organizational commitment mediated the relationship between AI awareness and career competencies, as well as the relationship between AI awareness and job burnout. Research limitations/implications This study contributes to human resource management in the hospitality industry to theoretical and practical aspects. Theoretically, it enriched both career theory and fit theory. Practically, this study reminds managers to pay attention to the adverse effect of AI on human capital. It also enlightens the manager to think of the positive effects that AI may bring. Managers should provide proper support to overcome AI’s threat to human resources. Practical implications Practically, this study reminds managers to pay attention to the adverse effect of AI on human capital. It also enlightens the manager to think of the positive effects that AI may bring. Managers should provide proper support to overcome AI’s threat to human resources. Originality/value The study aims to analyze the impact of AI from a career perspective. It provided theoretical support and evidence for hotel managers for the effects of AI awareness on hotel employees. The study conveys a potential topic of concern that the hospitality industry may face in the future.