The role of networking and social media tools during job search: an information behaviour perspective

Mowbray, John; Hall, Hazel; Raeside, Robert; Robertson, Peter

Abstract

Introduction. The paper presents a critical analysis of the extant literature pertaining to the networking behaviour of young jobseekers in both offline and online environments. A framework derived from information behaviour theory is proposed as a basis for conducting further research in this area.
Method. Relevant material for the review was sourced from key research domains such as library and information science, job search research, and organisational research.
Analysis. Three key research themes emerged from the analysis of the literature: (1) social networks, and the use of informal channels of information during job search, (2) the role of networking behaviour in job search, and (3) the adoption of social media tools. Tom Wilson’s general model of information behaviour was also identified as a suitable framework to conduct further research.
Results. Social networks have a crucial informational utility during the job search process. However, the processes whereby young jobseekers engage in networking behaviour, both offline and online, remain largely unexplored.
Conclusion. Identification and analysis of the key research themes reveal opportunities to acquire further knowledge regarding the networking behaviour of young jobseekers. Wilson’s model can be used as a framework to provide a holistic understanding of the networking process, from an information behaviour perspective.

Journal issue contains the Proceedings of the Ninth International Conference on Conceptions of Library and Information Science, Uppsala, Sweden, June 27-29, 2016

Citation

Mowbray, J., Hall, H., Raeside, R., & Robertson, P. (2016, June). The role of networking and social media tools during job search: an information behaviour perspective. Presented at Ninth International Conference on Conceptions of Library and Information Science, Uppsala, Sweden

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: Ninth International Conference on Conceptions of Library and Information Science
• Start Date: Jun 27, 2016
• End Date: Jun 29, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Mar 1, 2017
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Deposit Date: Apr 24, 2017
• Publicly Available Date: May 30, 2017
• Journal: Information Research
• Print ISSN: 1368-1613
• Publisher: University of Borås, Information Research
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 22
• Issue: 1
• Keywords: Young jobseekers, networking behavior, online and offline environments, information behavior,
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/831873
• Publisher URL: http://www.informationr.net/ir/22-1/colis/colis1615.html
• Additional Information: Proceedings of the Ninth International Conference on Conceptions of Library and Information Science, Uppsala, Sweden, June 27-29, 2016
• Contract Date: May 30, 2017