AI the Double-edged Sword: Navigating the Career Adaptability through the Parallel Mediation of Fear of Failure and Career Insecurity

AI is a new normal for the business world. It is expected to revolutionize business operations and improve organizational performance. It can also work as a double-edged sword as it may have many detrimental effects in terms of reduced labor demand and increased job insecurity. Building on these lines, this study investigates the relationship of AI perceptions with career adaptability through parallel mediation of fear of failure and career insecurity. The data were collected through questionnaires, and 231 filled responses were obtained from employees of IT firms, software houses, and call centers. The data analysis revealed that AI is not directly associated with career adaptability rather indirect relationships through fear of threat and career insecurity are supported. It was also observed that fear of failure negatively mediates the relationship, while career insecurity positively mediates it. Implications are drawn on the basis of findings, and future directions are also given. The management can apply the understanding of the study to carry out training needs assessment for AI-related training. The management should also involve employees and make them familiar with the positive uses of AI at work. Training could also improve performance when the employees apply the AI at work.