The Effect of Competence on Work Readiness with Career Adaptability as a Mediating Variable among Generation Z in South Nias Regency

Firna Wati Sartika Sanulo Mbarasi Duha, Hendrik Heri Sandi

Abstract


This study examines the effect of competence on work readiness with career adaptability as a mediating variable among Generation Z in South Nias Regency, Indonesia. A quantitative causal design was applied, and an online questionnaire was distributed to 133 Generation Z respondents aged 20–24 years who were selected through purposive sampling. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). After four indicators with outer loadings below 0.70 were removed, the measurement model met the criteria for convergent validity, discriminant validity (HTMT < 0.90), and reliability. The results show that competence has a significant but negative direct effect on work readiness (β = −0.552; t = 5.429), so the first hypothesis was rejected. Competence positively affects career adaptability (β = 0.842; t = 30.120), and career adaptability positively affects work readiness (β = 1.136; t = 11.543). Career adaptability mediates the effect of competence on work readiness (indirect effect = 0.957; t = 9.028) in a competitive mediation pattern, with a positive total effect of 0.405. The findings indicate that competence improves work readiness mainly when it is accompanied by career adaptability. Local government, higher education institutions, and training providers are therefore encouraged to combine competence development with career guidance for Generation Z.

Keywords


Career adaptability, Competence, Generation Z, Work readiness

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.17509/ijdb.v6i1.107129

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