Self-Efficacy as a Mediator between Digital Competence and Work Productivity in Generation Z in Samarinda City

Abstract

The development of digital technology requires employes to have adequate digital competence in order to adapt to the increasingly digitalized changes in the work environment. Digital competence is believed to not only affect work productivity but can also increase an individual's self-confidence or self-efficacy, which ultimately leads to optimal performance. This study aims to analyze the influence of digital competence on work productivity, with self-efficacy as an intervening variable, among Generation Z employes in Samarinda City. The research uses a quantitative approach with a survey method. The research sample consisted of 97 respondents determined thru purposive sampling technique, with the criteria being Generation Z employes residing and working in Samarinda. The research instrument was a five-point Likert scale questionnaire, while data analysis was performed using Partial Least Squares (PLS)-based Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS 4.0.The research results indicate that (1) digital competence has a positive and significant effect on work productivity, (2) digital competence has a positive and significant effect on self-efficacy, (3) self-efficacy has a positive and significant effect on work productivity, and (4) self-efficacy is proven to significantly mediate the influence of digital competence on work productivity. Therefore, this study confirms the importance of developing employes' digital competence in line with strengthening self-efficacy to improve the work productivity of Generation Z, particularly in Samarinda City.