AI explosion and its impact on employees’ well-being. What remains to be explored?

Purpose: AI has entered the workplace with tremendous velocity and intensity, affecting both business operations and employees› well-being. Nevertheless, research of AI’s influence on employees’ psychological well-being is still emerging, and many researchers are currently exploring the issue in parallel. The purpose of this study is to summarize the main findings of existing research and to highlight specific directions that future research should pursue. Methodology: This study uses a triangulated approach of systematic literature review, thematic analysis, and 15 interviews with employees from various sectors to validate the research focus and identify unexplored gaps to collect comprehensive information. Findings: The effects of AI on employees’ well-being were found to be predominantly negative, although some efforts to positively address and enhance AI were also observed. The hospitality and healthcare sectors have gained most scholarly attention, but there is a need to research more industries and use various methodological approaches, as well as more moderators. Originality: The originality of this research lies in its combination of a systematic literature review with insights gained from interviews, which enriched the findings and provided valuable guidance for future research directions. Practical implications: This approach adds practical value for organizations by guiding them on how to leverage AI in ways that benefit both their employees and their performance, without diminishing employees› job satisfaction, turnover intention, or insecurity, thus enhancing their overall well-being.