Leadership Preferences of Generation Z in Kalimantan: A Localized Mixed-Methods Exploratory Study

Abstract

Background: Generation Z is increasingly influencing the contemporary workplace through advanced digital skills, a strong preference for flexible work arrangements, and expectations for genuine and value-based leadership. Nevertheless, leadership preferences can differ across regions and specific demographic settings.
Purpose: This study analyzes the localized viewpoints of a particular Generation Z group concerning the leadership styles they consider most effective within the current workplace environment.
Design/methodology/approach: An exploratory mixed methods design was used, involving data collection from a limited group of respondents, most respondents were based in Kalimantan (88.1%). Quantitative responses from closed-ended questions were examined descriptively through frequency distributions. The qualitative analysis employed text mining and word frequency analysis using Voyant Tools to identify dominant keyword patterns and visualize associations related to leadership characteristics in open ended responses.
Findings/Result: The descriptive findings and word frequency analysis revealed that transformational, servant, and authentic leadership traits were the most favored among respondents. Text analysis further demonstrated that terms such as “inspirational,” “empathetic,” “transparent,” and “integrity” played a central role in describing the qualities of an ideal leader.
Conclusion: Despite its limited statistical strength and geographic coverage, this exploratory study presents a localized perspective of Generation Z in Kalimantan, suggesting that leadership approaches centered on inspiration, empathy, and transparency are strongly valued within this particular cohort.
Originality/value (State of the art): This study contributes an initial and localized understanding of a regional segment of Indonesian Generation Z, offering an early reference for organizations operating in similar contexts while emphasizing the importance of wider and more statistically rigorous research on the future workforce.

Keywords: leadership style, z generation, voyant, mixed methods, workplace environment