Exploring the use of a goal-attainment, artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot coach to support first-time graduate employees

First-time graduate employees 1 face numerous challenges in the workplace. Organizational coaching is a proven individual HR support intervention, however due to prohibitive cost, graduate employees typically don’t qualify for this type of assistance. This study investigated a cost effective, artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot coach to support graduate employees. Nine graduate employees used a goal-attainment AI chatbot coach for 4 weeks to help with their career goals. They were interviewed afterwards on their perceptions of the chatbot. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Four main themes emerged. Participants liked the convenience and accessibility and the chatbot coach’s effectiveness in career development as well as the chatbot’s ability to assist their reflection and self-awareness. They missed the human touch and flexible ( limitations). Findings were interpreted using technology adoption and self-determination theories. The chatbot coach satisfies the ease-of-use technology adoption factor and promoted autonomy and competence. Organisations should seriously consider the use of AI coaching to support graduate employees given the significant challenge they face and the lack of support. The use of AI coaching is a new frontier in organisational coaching. This study provides initial insights into potential role of AI coaching in niche organizational context such as graduate employee support.