AI Adoption in HRM: Exploring Trust Through Lens of Reliability, Credibility and Technical Competence

Instilling trust in artificial intelligence (AI) is indispensable for professionals to feel confident in relying upon automated systems for talent management decisions, and AI-powered HR solutions are expeditiously innovating human resource management (HRM) processes. Over the past 5 years, investments in AI-driven HR operations have increased extensively, indicating a shift from traditional HR technologies to more advanced, intelligent systems. This study examines how the trust factor influences the adoption of AI in HRM by assessing the effects of technology reliability (RL), credibility (CR) and technical competence (TEC) on HR professionals’ trust and, subsequently, their intent to deploy AI tools. The data were compiled through a structured questionnaire administered to 530 ITeS companies in Delhi NCR, India, and the responses were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The findings reveal that technology RL, CR and TEC each enhance trust in AI. This trust, in turn, substantially contributes to the adoption of AI in HRM. By emphasising the central role of trust, these results provide actionable insights for HR professionals, researchers and technology developers seeking to enable effective AI integration in HR practices. Building on these findings, organisations can more confidently implement AI solutions, knowing that fostering trust is key to maximising their impact in HR.