Abstract
As flexible work arrangements become the norm, workers must frequently transition between multiple roles, each carrying distinct expectations, obligations, and behaviors. These at-work micro role transitions can enhance identity-based competence and engagement but may also create conflicts that impair cognition, authenticity, and performance. While prior research has explored identity conflict during transitions between specific roles, the challenges of frequent at-work micro transitions remain underexamined, particularly in digital environments. Drawing on identity and boundary theories, we plan to investigate how virtual workers manage multiple identities during these transitions. Using semi-structured interviews in a technology firm, we plan to explore identity conflicts that arise and strategies for managing them. Preliminary findings suggest that conflicting expectations can cause cognitive strain, requiring significant adaptation. By exploring these dynamics, we hope to contribute to identity theory and offer practical insights on managing role identities in virtual work settings.