The role of social media in influencing career success

2014 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
pp. 273-294 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexei Nikitkov ◽  
Barbara Sainty
Keyword(s):  
Social Network ◽  
Social Networking ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Career Success ◽  
Empirical Support ◽  
Public Institution ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Network Information ◽  
Network Profile ◽  
Profile Characteristics

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to help us better understand if it is beneficial for individuals to use social networking sites (SNSs) to expand their networking opportunities, translating into greater career success. A significant key to career success is networking. SNSs are changing the way employees develop their networks with businesses and with other individuals. Design/methodology/approach – This study uses archival data including academic records for 1,182 accounting alumni from a large Canadian public institution. This dataset was expanded by obtaining social network information (presence and use) for each individual’s record. Findings – After controlling for a number of indicators of career success, the study found that presence on SNSs such as LinkedIn and the amount of activity therein has a strong and consistent association with metrics of professional success not found with non-professional sites such as Facebook, Twitter and MySpace. Originality/value – This study provides empirical support for the value of social networking as a proxy for the development of social capital. Support is in establishing the link between a group of social network profile characteristics and metrics of one’s career success. Distinguishing LinkedIn as chiefly connecting to alumni successes may be reflected in the weights attached to the profile characteristics as opposed to information coming from other sources.

Examining the influential factors for continued social media use

2019 ◽  
Vol 119 (5) ◽  
pp. 1104-1127 ◽  
Author(s):  
Qian Liu ◽  
Zhen Shao ◽  
Jian Tang ◽  
Weiguo Fan
Keyword(s):  
Social Media ◽  
Social Network ◽  
Social Interaction ◽  
Social Networking ◽  
Information Sharing ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Self Regulation ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Media Influence ◽  
Content Type

Purpose Drawing upon the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the self-regulation framework, the purpose of this paper is to investigate whether and how factors for social media continuance behaviors work differently between social networking sites and microblogging. Design/methodology/approach A survey method was used to collect two samples of 557 social networking sites users and 568 microblogging users. The proposed research model was tested with the structural equation modeling technique. Findings The empirical results demonstrate that the impacts of influencing factors on users’ continuance behaviors vary by types of social media services. Information sharing has a stronger impact on microblog users’ satisfaction than social network users while social interaction has a stronger impact on satisfaction for social network users than microblog users. In addition, interpersonal influence is more effective in shaping satisfaction for the social network users while media influence is more effective in shaping satisfaction for the microblog users. Originality/value This is one of the first studies that integrate TPB with Bagozzi’s self-regulation framework to understand the behavioral model of social networking and microblogging continuance. The findings show that the impacts of attitudinal beliefs regarding information sharing and social interaction on social media users’ satisfaction are different across social networking and microblogging contexts. Moreover, this study also reveals different effects of two specific subjective norms – interpersonal and media influence – on continued use of social networking and microblogging.

Connecting and being connected: investigating friending practices across multiple social networking sites

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Chien Wen Yuan ◽  
Yu-Hao Lee
Keyword(s):  
Social Capital ◽  
Social Networking ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Social Ties ◽  
Relationship Maintenance ◽  
Strong Ties ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Bonding Social Capital ◽  
Amazon's Mechanical Turk

PurposeSocial networking sites (SNSs) offer people the possibility of maintaining larger networks of social ties, which also entails more complex relationship maintenance across multiple platforms. Whom to “friend” and via which platform can involve complex deliberations. This study investigates the relationships between users' perceived friending affordances of five popular SNSs (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and LinkedIn) and their friending behaviors concerning strong ties, weak ties (existing and latent ties) and parasocial ties.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey using Qualtrics was provided to participants (N = 626) through Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk). The survey asked their SNS use and their friending behaviors with different ties on each of the sites.FindingsUsers' friending decisions are dependent on an interplay of socio-technical affordances of each SNS and specific needs for the ties. The authors found that the affordances of bridging social capital and enjoyment are aligned with friending weak and parasocial ties, respectively. The affordances of bonding social capital were not valued to friend strong ties.Originality/valueThe study extends the affordance and social capital literature by assessing users' perceived, contextualized SNS affordances in relation to actual communication behaviors in friending different social ties. This approach provides contextualized insights to friending decisions and practices on SNSs.

scholarly journals Perceived value of social networking sites (SNS) in students' expressive participation in social movements

2014 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 56-78 ◽  
Author(s):  
Juan D. Borrero ◽  
Shumaila Y. Yousafzai ◽  
Uzma Javed ◽  
Kelly L. Page
Keyword(s):  
Social Movements ◽  
University Students ◽  
Social Networking ◽  
Technology Acceptance ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Perceived Usefulness ◽  
Intention To Use ◽  
Content Type

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to determine the beliefs that influence university students to use social networking sites (SNS) for expressive participation in social movements. Design/methodology/approach – The original technology acceptance model (TAM), a quantitative methodological approach, and a survey were used to collect responses from 214 university students in Spain. Structural equation modelling was used to test the proposed relationships. Findings – Results confirm that the perceived ease of use (PEU) and perceived usefulness (PU) of SNS significantly affect a student's intention to use SNS for expressive social participation in social movements, with use intention significantly affecting actual participation. There was no significant moderating effect of students' gender on these relationships. Originality/value – Although there is much discussion in the popular press about how people use SNS, there is no published empirical research on the determinants that contribute to a person's intention to use and actual use of SNS in the context of social movements. This paper is one of the first studies to investigate young people's perception of the SNS usefulness and ease of the use for participation in social movements.

User-generated content on the Facebook page of an emergency management agency

2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (4) ◽  
pp. 558-579 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jayan Chirayath Kurian ◽  
Blooma Mohan John
Keyword(s):  
Social Networking ◽  
Emergency Management ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Disaster Recovery ◽  
Information Dissemination ◽  
Social Networking Site ◽  
User Generated Content ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Management Agency ◽  
Mixed Response

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore themes eventuating from the user-generated content posted by users on the Facebook page of an emergency management agency. Design/methodology/approach An information classification framework was used to classify user-generated content posted by users including all of the content posted during a six month period (January to June 2015). The posts were read and analysed thematically to determine the overarching themes evident across the entire collection of user posts. Findings The results of the analysis demonstrate that the key themes that eventuate from the user-generated content posted are “Self-preparedness”, “Emergency signalling solutions”, “Unsurpassable companion”, “Aftermath of an emergency”, and “Gratitude towards emergency management staff”. Major user-generated content identified among these themes are status-update, criticism, recommendation, and request. Research limitations/implications This study contributes to theory on the development of key themes from user-generated content posted by users on a public social networking site. An analysis of user-generated content identified in this study implies that, Facebook is primarily used for information dissemination, coordination and collaboration, and information seeking in the context of emergency management. Users may gain the benefits of identity construction and social provisions, whereas social conflict is a potential detrimental implication. Other user costs include lack of social support by stakeholders, investment in social infrastructure and additional work force required to alleviate the technological, organisational, and social barriers in communication among stakeholders in emergency management. A collective activity system built upon the Activity Theory was used as a lens to describe users’ activity of posting content on the Facebook page of an emergency management agency. Practical implications By analysing the findings, administrators and policy makers of emergency management could identify the extent to which the core principles of disaster recovery are accomplished using public social networking sites. These are achieved in relation to: pre-disaster recovery planning; partnership and inclusiveness; public information messaging; unity of effort; and, psychological recovery to maximise the success of recovery in a disaster. Furthermore, a core principle which evoked a mixed response was timeliness and flexibility. Originality/value Previous studies have examined the role of social networking sites in disastrous situations, but to date there has been very little research into determining themes found in user-generated content posted on the Facebook page of an emergency management agency. Hence, this study addresses the gap in literature by conducting a thematic analysis of user-generated content posted on the Facebook page of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Optimizing transparency for users in social networking sites

Info ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 16 (6) ◽  
pp. 8-23 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ellen Wauters ◽  
Verónica Donoso ◽  
Eva Lievens
Keyword(s):  
Social Networking ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Information Provision ◽  
Visual Design ◽  
Cognitive Differences ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Legal Documents ◽  
Types Of Information ◽  
Insight Into

Purpose – This article aims to reflect on possible ways to optimise current ways to deliver information provision to make it more transparent to users. In particular, this article will refer to the benefits (and challenges) of using more user-centred approaches to inform users in a more transparent way. Design/methodology/approach – In this paper we analyse individual, as well as contextual factors (e.g. cognitive differences, time constraints, specific features of social networking sites [SNS] platforms) which may have an impact on the way users deal with Terms of Use, privacy policies and other types of information provision typically made available on SNS platforms. In addition, possible ways of improving current practices in the field are discussed. In particular, the benefits (and challenges) of a user-centred approach have been referred to when it comes to informing users in a way that is more meaningful to them. Finally, it is discussed how user-centred approaches can act as mechanisms to increase transparency in SNS environments and how (alternative) forms of regulation could benefit from such an approach. Findings – The authors believe that it is necessary to start focussing on users/consumers’ needs, expectations and values to develop visualisation tools that can help make law (more) meaningful to users/consumers by giving them a better insight into their rights and obligations and by guiding them in making truly informed decisions regarding their online choices and behaviour. Originality/value – By looking at different techniques such as visual design and the timing of information, the article contributes to the discussion on how people can be made more aware of legal documents and actually read them.

scholarly journals Online social networks as formal learning environments: Learner experiences and activities

2012 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 144 ◽  
Author(s):  
George Veletsianos ◽  
Cesar Navarrete
Keyword(s):  
Social Network ◽  
Social Networking ◽  
Online Social Networks ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Online Social Network ◽  
Online Course ◽  
Formal Learning ◽  
The Social

<p>While the potential of social networking sites to contribute to educational endeavors is highlighted by researchers and practitioners alike, empirical evidence on the use of such sites for formal online learning is scant. To fill this gap in the literature, we present a case study of learners’ perspectives and experiences in an online course taught using the Elgg online social network. Findings from this study indicate that learners enjoyed and appreciated both the social learning experience afforded by the online social network and supported one another in their learning, enhancing their own and other students’ experiences. Conversely, results also indicate that students limited their participation to course-related and graded activities, exhibiting little use of social networking and sharing. Additionally, learners needed support in managing the expanded amount of information available to them and devised strategies and “workarounds” to manage their time and participation.<br /><strong></strong></p>

Ascertaining Trust Indicators in Social Networking Sites

2013 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 22-37
Author(s):  
N. Veerasamy ◽  
W. A. Labuschagne
Keyword(s):  
Social Networks ◽  
Social Network ◽  
Social Networking ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Social Network Sites ◽  
Specific Focus

The use of social network sites has exploded with its multitude of functions which include posting pictures, interests, activities and establishing contacts. However, users may be unaware of the lurking dangers of threats originating from Social Networking Sites (SNS) which include malware or fake profiles. This paper investigates the indicators to arouse suspicion that a social networking account is invalid with a specific focus on Facebook as an illustrative example. The results from a survey on users’ opinions on social networks, is presented in the paper. This helps reveal some of the trust indicators that leads users to ascertaining whether a social networking profile is valid or not. Finally, indicators of potentially deceptive agents and profiles are given as a guideline to help users decide whether they should proceed with interaction with certain contacts.

scholarly journals The value of social networking sites in hotels

2019 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 114-132 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Diffley ◽  
Patrick McCole
Keyword(s):  
Social Networking ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Customer Value ◽  
Hotel Industry ◽  
Research Area ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Marketing Activities ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Hotel Marketing

Purpose Despite the rapid growth of social networking sites (SNSs), research demonstrating the marketing application of these technologies is lacking. Consequently, this paper aims to explore the impact of SNSs on hotel marketing activities. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory study was used. Adopting a key informant approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 respondents in the hotel industry, who use SNSs as part of their hotel marketing efforts. Findings Networked interactions facilitated by SNSs can influence the marketing activities of hotels in many ways. This extends to deeper connections and co-creating value with customers to enhance the market offerings and promotional activities of the firm. Not all interviewees capitalised upon the capabilities offered by SNSs. Practical implications SNSs act as a key knowledge resource that can be used by practitioners to create and deliver superior customer value. However, the extent to which this is achieved depends on who is responsible for implementing it. Specifically, those with a more proactive attitude and approach towards marketing on SNSs tend to reap greater benefits. Originality/value Using the service-dominant logic as a guide, this paper offers greater insight into the theory and practice of social media marketing in the hotel industry, an under-studied and fragmented research area.

Adoption of social networking sites for educational use

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 2-19 ◽  
Author(s):  
Godfred Matthew Yaw Owusu ◽  
Rita Amoah Bekoe ◽  
Dorothea Sekyiwa Otoo ◽  
Akua Pokuaa Essah Koli
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Social Networking ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Perceived Usefulness ◽  
Survey Method ◽  
Perceived Ease Of Use ◽  
School Students ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Respondent Group

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the views of university students on social networking sites (SNSs) adoption for educational purposes and investigate the factors that motivate students to use SNSs for academic purposes.Design/methodology/approachA survey method of research was adopted and questionnaires were administered to the respondent group. A total of 522 valid responses from the University of Ghana Business School Students were used in the empirical analysis. Regression analysis was used to examine the relationship among the key constructs of the study.FindingsThe results of this study suggest that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, the existence of facilitating conditions and the purposes of SNSs are the key factors that motivate students to adopt SNSs for academic purposes. However, the influence of other people in society and the desire to be identified with social groups were found not to be important predictors of SNSs use by students for educational purposes.Research limitations/implicationsThe data examined in this study are based on sample responses from only one university, which may limit the extent of generalization of the findings.Originality/valueThis paper provides some useful insights into the key predictors of SNSs adoption for educational use by university students from the perspective of a developing country.

Examining fan engagement through social networking sites

2019 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 163-183 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thiago Oliveira Santos ◽  
Abel Correia ◽  
Rui Biscaia ◽  
Ann Pegoraro
Keyword(s):  
Social Networking ◽  
Psychometric Properties ◽  
Social Networking Sites ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Equation Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Behavioural Intentions ◽  
Expert Review ◽  
Multi Stage ◽  
Fan Engagement

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to conceptualise and measure the construct of fan engagement through social networking sites (SNS).Design/methodology/approachA multi-stage procedure was completed to validate the proposed fan engagement through SNS model with three first-order constructs (fan-to-fan relationships, team-to-fan relationships and fan co-creation). First, a preliminary analysis of the proposed items to capture fan engagement through SNS was conducted through expert review. Second, an assessment of item reliability and construct validity was completed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Finally, CFA and subsequent structural equation model were conducted to review the psychometric properties and to test the relationships between the proposed construct with online and offline behavioural intentions.FindingsThe results indicate good psychometric properties of the constructs of fan-to-fan relationships, team-to-fan relationships and fan co-creation, and these three constructs were significantly related with the second-order construct of fan engagement through SNS. Additionally, the construct of fan engagement through SNS was significantly related to both online and offline behavioural intentions.Practical implicationsThese findings suggest that teams should use SNS to interact with fans, to allow fans to share experiences and to involve fans in co-creation processes aimed at increasing engagement and subsequent positive behavioural intentions towards the team.Originality/valueThis study extends previous research by measuring fan engagement through SNS as a multidimensional construct, and testing its predictive effect on fans’ online and offline behavioural intentions. Several suggestions for future studies and strategies for increasing fan engagement can be drawn from this study.

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