Attracting talent: understanding generation Z’s expectations of technology-driven workplaces

Purpose Generation Z (Gen Z) is born in a digital era and therefore, expects employers to adopt technology-oriented methods to attract and engage them. This study aims to understand their expectations about use of digital transformations in their future workplace, focusing on training and development, work-life balance and employee engagement. Further, it examines the impact of these three aspects on intent to join an organization. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire-based survey is conducted by employing purposive sampling. Responses are collected from 248 students of final year, post graduating in commerce and business administration, who are members of Gen Z. Data has been analyzed using structural equation modeling. Findings The findings indicate that Gen Z holds high expectations for digitalizing the training and development, work-life balance and employee engagement related aspects. Moreover, it is also inferred that all these expectations have a significant and positive impact on their intent to join an organization. Research limitations/implications The study provides valuable insights for attracting Gen Z talent by considering their unique perspectives on workplace digitalization. The study also offers implications for theory and management. However, the sample characteristics limit the scope for generalization of findings. Originality/value This study makes a unique attempt to understand the expectations of youngest generation about workplace digitalization. It also signifies the positive association between use of technology at workplaces and intent to join.