Digital competencies and job security: How digital transformation systems and a metaverse mindset reshape the workforce

Digital transformation that occurs within the work environment is changing the competencies that are needed to remain employable and job security for the long term. The purpose of this study is to explore the antecedent factors of job security. This study also explores the mediating role of the behaviour of digital citizenship and the metaverse mindset. The study participants consist of Kuwait’s 406 employees, and the collected data were analysed via Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings show that digital leadership and literacy have a significant impact in improving the adaptability of the workforce and job security by fostering responsible digital behaviour and willingness to embrace immersive technologies. Employees with relevant certification have increased agility, digital readiness and engagement, which highlights that continuous upskilling is critical. This study positions itself in Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which provides insights that are applicable to human capital development through explaining the core components of HRM, such as digital agility and ethical tech engagement within the digital era.