As AI becomes more integrated into our work lives, it’s crucial to understand how it impacts our self-perception and the emotions it triggers. AI’s role in performing complex tasks can be highly efficient, but it’s not just about productivity—it’s also about how people feel when AI influences areas that traditionally required human input.

AI and Decision-Making: How It Affects Our Emotional Response

A recent study on AI’s role in decision-making examined scenarios where applications (for loans, benefits, etc.) were either accepted or rejected. Across 10 studies with over 5,000 participants, researchers found surprising differences in emotional responses based on whether the decisions were made by humans or AI:

• Positive Decisions: When a person granted a participant’s request, the joy was significantly greater compared to when an AI made the same decision. It seems that when AI is involved, people feel less satisfaction, perhaps because the “human touch” reinforces their sense of value and validation.

  
  

• Negative Decisions: Interestingly, participants reacted similarly to negative news, regardless of whether it was delivered by a human or AI. The emotional response to rejection was equally negative, suggesting that the “human touch” may be less necessary in these cases.

These responses are deeply tied to how we see ourselves. For many, self-worth is closely linked to professional identity and personal achievements, and interactions with AI in these areas can feel impersonal or even undermining. When AI handles complex tasks, people may feel less engaged or valued, which can impact job satisfaction and self-esteem.

Practical Insights for AI Deployment in the Workplace

The implications of these findings are essential for organizations looking to integrate AI into their processes, especially when it comes to decisions that affect people’s sense of self-worth, such as hiring or evaluations.

1. Humanizing Positive Interactions:

• If you’re using AI to screen resumes or assess initial applications, avoid sending automated notifications for positive outcomes. A personalized email or call can make candidates feel valued and seen, reinforcing their sense of achievement.

  
  

2. Automating Rejections:

• When it comes to delivering unfavorable news, automated responses may be equally effective. People tend to react similarly to negative outcomes from both AI and humans, as the disappointment is often directed at the result rather than the messenger. In such cases, the absence of a “human touch” is less noticeable.

Our interactions with AI are becoming more frequent, and while AI brings immense efficiency, it also highlights the need for a thoughtful approach. People value their own contributions, and they derive a sense of self-worth from feeling seen and acknowledged. By strategically integrating human interactions into AI processes, companies can create a balanced approach that respects employees' and candidates’ emotional responses, leveraging AI’s efficiency while preserving the human touch where it matters most.

AI is a powerful tool, but in the workplace, the art of human connection remains irreplaceable. Embracing both technology and humanity can lead to a more fulfilling, respectful environment where people feel valued, understood, and engaged.