The Organizational Cultural Impact of the Social use of AI and Bots on Remote Employees Returning to the Workplace

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) mediated communication tools supported collaboration, maintained production and even provided emotional support during remote work. Employees thereby expected workplace engagement to rely more heavily on AI-driven efficiency. Although COVID-19 did not lead to the creation of AI, the COVID-19 pandemic did drive AI to the vanguard of corporate operations through the growth of digital innovation. This research explored workplace reintegration and AI adoption using a qualitative approach to understand employee experience of AI adoption and workplace reintegration. In-depth interviews with employees who had experienced this transition were the data source. The AI dependency, how to develop interpersonal skills, and where leadership lies in managing the balance between AI and human-centered work culture were thematically analyzed to determine the main patterns and concerns. The findings show that many employees struggled with face-to-face interaction because they were used to the assistance of AI in workplace communication and decision-making, which used to be effective. A psychological and behavioral change was needed for the transition to in-person collaboration. While AI chatbots helped employees schedule, troubleshoot, and get answers to their questions more expeditiously than in the traditional workplace, traditional workplace where interactions are now slower and less efficient.