Using social networking sites during the career management process

Abstract

This chapter describes how higher education professionals and college students can use social networking sites and technology to manage their careers. Individuals can expect to change careers several times in a lifetime making the importance and role of social networks past and present central to the career management process. The way individuals communicate and interact through the use of social networking sites for the purpose of career development is discussed. The role of social networking sites in exploring career options, learning, making connections, searching for jobs, developing professionally, making decisions, and maintaining a professional image online is examined. A model is presented on using social networking sites to gather information and feedback during the career management process. Scenarios and examples are provided from higher educational professionals, hiring managers, college students, job seekers, and career changers. The chapter envisions the future of career management specific to higher education and addresses how higher education career advisors can respond to social networking sites and technology.

Citation

Richmond, N., Rochefort, B. and Hitch, L. (2011), "Using social networking sites during the career management process", Wankel, L.A. and Wankel, C. (Ed.) Higher Education Administration with Social Media (Cutting-Edge Technologies in Higher Education, Vol. 2), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 147-164. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2044-9968(2011)0000002011