Do online social networks help to get a job? A study on online social networks as a recruitment method in Russia

Abstract

Introduction Online social networks play an important role in business practices and recruitment is not an exception. At the same time, there is a clear shortage of research about online social networks and their applicability as a recruitment method. Therefore this topic was chosen for this master thesis study.

Objective of the Research This study aims to find out what factors make online social networks a useful tool when searching for employment and make practical recommendations on how to use social networking sites to job seekers’ advantage. The study will be geographically limited to Russia since different cultural factors can influence the choice of job search methods in different countries and in order to net out this effect one country was chosen.

Methodology The multi method research approach was used in this study. Data was collected utilizing observations, online questionnaire, semi-structured interviews and secondary data.

Findings and Conclusions It can be concluded that SNSs are emerging as an important recruitment method in Russia. It was found that job candidates regard online social networks as a very good way to be passively looking for a job as well as receive up to date information about job offerings. Recruiters consider online social networks to be a useful recruitment method due to large candidates’ pool, cost savings and educational benefits. The use of SNSs as recruitment method is expected to grow in the next few years.