Unlocking Gen-Z employee potential: the role of strategic leadership and organizational culture

Abstract

This study aims to examine the role of strategic leadership and organizational culture in optimizing the potential of Generation Z (Gen-Z) employees in the modern work environment. Gen-Z has unique characteristics, such as high adaptability to technology and a strong desire to achieve work-life balance, which requires a more inclusive and dynamic leadership approach and organizational culture. Through a quantitative approach, this study uses the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method to analyze the relationship between strategic leadership and organizational culture on the performance of Gen-Z employees. Data were obtained from a survey of 96 Gen-Z employees working in various industrial sectors. The results of the study indicate that strategic leadership involving open communication, innovation, and long-term vision does not have a positive and significant effect on Gen-Z motivation and performance. In addition, an organizational culture that supports collaboration, flexibility, and personal development has also been shown to play an important role in improving their performance. This study underlines the importance of the role of strategic leaders in creating an organizational culture that is aligned with the expectations and values ​​of Generation Z, so that they can optimize their potential to the fullest. The practical implications of this study provide guidance for managers and organizational policy makers to design effective leadership strategies in the era of a multigenerational workforce.