Chapter 11: Metaverse and Artificial Intelligence: Evolving Technology Frontiers for Enhancing Employee Engagement and Task Performance Among Generation Z Employees

Globally, the convergence of the metaverse and artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping business models, unlocking unprecedented levels of personalization, and virtual interaction in an era of virtual workspaces. Developed economies have already begun reaping the benefits of these technologies by optimizing work processes and setting new standards for innovation. Now is the time for emerging economies to integrate metaverse and AI, to remain competitive in the global market by unlocking its vast opportunities. Examining data collected from 336 Generation Z employees working in EdTech companies, structural equation modeling highlights the paramount contribution of intention to use metaverse and AI savvy leadership in fostering employee engagement, and task performance among Generation Z employees. This novel study indicates through empirical analysis that advancements in creating immersing and interactive experience are now transcending traditional work settings, facilitating employee engagement, while bringing in a new dimension on how organizations can address disengagement issues by leveraging tech capabilities.