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The Scholarship Without Borders Journal

The Scholarship Without Borders Journal

Abstract

Generation Z is rapidly reshaping the global workforce, bringing with them new expectations for leadership grounded in authenticity, purpose, flexibility, technological fluency, and cultural intelligence. However, many traditional leadership models—such as transactional, servant, and even transformational leadership—only partially align with Generation Z’s needs. This study conducted a thematic analysis of 45 scholarly articles published between 2018 and 2024, identifying six leadership dimensions most valued by Generation Z: authentic transparency, servant-transformational focus, adaptive flexibility and inclusion, digital fluency, purpose-driven vision, and cultural intelligence. Based on these findings, the Connected Authentic Leadership Model (CALM) was developed to provide a holistic leadership framework suited to engaging and retaining Generation Z employees. CALM integrates these six dimensions, extending existing leadership theories by embedding digital competence, cross-cultural sensitivity, and social purpose as core leadership functions rather than peripheral concerns. Practical implications include the need for leadership development programs to prioritize authenticity, technological leadership skills, personalized motivation strategies, and mission-driven work cultures. Future research should empirically test the CALM model’s effectiveness across industries and global contexts. As organizations compete to attract the next generation of talent, leaders who embody the CALM principles will be best positioned to foster loyalty, innovation, and organizational success.

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