A new article from the WorkAI project examines how workplace AI use, AI readiness and social comparison are connected to work exhaustion. The article, “Social comparison contributes to work exhaustion in the context of workplace AI use: A three-wave follow-up study of Finnish workers,” was authored by Iina Savolainen, Teijo Osma, Roope Grönroos, Moona Heiskari and Atte Oksanen and published in SSM – Population Health.
The study followed Finnish employees over three survey waves from autumn 2024 to autumn 2025. The baseline sample included 2,109 employed adults aged 18–65, and the follow-ups were conducted in spring and autumn 2025. The researchers examined work exhaustion, social comparison orientation, perceived AI readiness and AI use at work.
The results show that frequent AI use at work was not directly associated with work exhaustion. Instead, employees with stronger social comparison tendencies reported higher exhaustion both within individuals over time and between individuals. Higher perceived AI readiness was linked to lower exhaustion, suggesting that confidence and preparedness in using AI may serve as a personal resource in changing work environments.
The findings highlight the importance of looking beyond technical AI skills. As AI becomes part of everyday work, organizations should also pay attention to the psychosocial work environment, including competitive comparison, expectations around AI use and the support employees receive when adapting to new technologies. The study was funded by the Finnish Work Environment Fund as part of the WorkAI project.
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