The Social Network Generation And Implications For Human Resource Managers
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Tens of millions use social networks on a regular basis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Social networks encourage the sharing of information, photos, videos, accomplishments, and experiences via the internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their wide-spread and increasing usage especially among young people has been well-documented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Individuals who have started such networks have become wealthy as sites have gone public.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Businesses are increasingly becoming involved in the networks as they realize the large following that the networks have generated and the fact that such networks can be sources of useful information on which to base decisions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Social networks and individual members who utilize such networks are becoming increasingly aware that there are advantages and disadvantages to such usage. Network users need to be aware that postings on these networks are being scrutinized in ways those posting the information had not imagined when they signed on. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Firms increasingly are investigating applicant users through the networks. Indeed, human resource managers have more tools and investigation avenues at their disposal now than ever before.</span></span></p>