Imprinting and Workplace Well-Being among Generation Z Hotel Employees

This study investigated the dynamic imprinting processes that shape Generation Z hotel employees’ workplace well-being. An integrated research framework was built based on the insights of imprinting theory and positive psychology. Photo-elicitation interviews and narrative analysis were used as the key research techniques. Findings illuminate the dynamic processes of imprinting among Generation Z hotel employees, encompassing the formation, evolution, and outcomes of imprints which are originated from the employees’ childhood and adolescence. Six dimensions of workplace well-being, including self-drive, personalization, responsibility, tolerance, realization, and identification, are identified. The multi-dimensional workplace well-being emerges through the ongoing melting, regeneration, and manifestation of different kinds of imprints. This study offers theoretical contributions to imprinting theory, positive psychology, and employees’ wellbeing research. Practical implications are provided to attract and motivate young employees in the hotel industry.