UNDERSTANDING THE LINK BETWEEN WORK-LIFE BALANCE AND JOB SATISFACTION IN GEN Z WORKFORCE

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of work-life balance on job satisfaction among Generation Z employees in Indonesia's e-commerce startup sector. As digital natives with unique professional values, Gen Z places strong emphasis on flexibility, mental well-being, and the seamless blending of work and personal life traits that set them apart from earlier generations. A quantitative method was utilized, employing a survey-based design and purposive sampling technique. A total of 100 Gen Z employees from various startups completed an online questionnaire consisting of 15 statements evaluating work-life balance and 25 items related to job satisfaction, using a 5-point Likert scale. The data were processed using simple linear regression through IBM SPSS Statistics Version 26, aiming to assess the relationship’s strength, direction, and statistical significance between the studied variables. The findings reveal a significant and positive correlation between work-life balance and job satisfaction, with a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.221. This indicates that 22.1% of the variability in job satisfaction is influenced by how employees perceive their work-life balance. These outcomes highlight the need for startups to establish more adaptable and supportive working conditions aligned with Gen Z preferences. From a managerial perspective, the results advocate for HR strategies that prioritize employee wellness, lower stress levels, and improve organizational commitment. Ultimately, promoting an effective work-life balance not only enhances employee satisfaction but also plays a crucial role in talent retention and organizational sustainability, particularly within the competitive startup ecosystem.