CRAFTING A POSITIVE EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE: THE ROLE OF CULTURE, TECHNOLOGY, AND PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT - INSIGHTS FROM SENIOR HR LEADERS

This study explores the key factors that shape both positive and negative employee experiences (EX) in large organizations, emphasizing the critical roles of culture, technology, and the physical environment.This study aims to identify the cultural, technological, and physical factors most relevant to fostering employee engagement, satisfaction, and well-being, based on insights from senior HR leaders.A descriptive qualitative design was employed, utilizing 15 semi-structured in-depth interviews with senior HR leaders, including consultants, managers, and directors.The data were analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach to identify the cultural, technical, and physical factors influencing employee experience.The findings reveal that supportive cultural, technological, and physical environments enhance employee engagement, satisfaction, and overall EX.Key cultural elements include fair pay and benefits, a culture of inclusion, growth and development opportunities, and strong leadership.Technological support features self-service tools, modern systems, and hybrid work solutions, while physical spaces emphasize thoughtful workspace features and inclusive social areas.Organizations aiming to enhance EX should foster inclusive cultures with fair pay, growth opportunities, and supportive leadership, adopt userfriendly technologies to streamline work, and design thoughtful workspaces that promote well-being and collaboration.This research is among the first to examine employee experience (EX) qualitatively, offering insights from senior HR leaders across industries.It highlights how organizational factors shape EX, providing a foundation for future strategies.