Week 5 EOC: Social Networks and Job Hunting

“Consumer purchases are influenced strongly by cultural, social, personal, and psychological characteristics.” (Marketing: An Introduction, 10^th Edition)

To better sell a product or service in the minds of the consumer, much research is required to figure out the minds of the consumer. It’s far from black and white, and what seemed like solid information can change with the rise of cultural, social and economic factors.

In regards to the article entitled “Job Recruiters Turn to Facebook to Find Candidates”, companies have now delved into the possibility of posting more job listings on Facebook rather than professional employment platforms such as LinkedIn. Research shows that more potential employees are more likely to apply on social media websites such as Facebook rather than creating a professional account from another website, citing convenience as a major factor. On the flip side, some applicants detest to having their personal life intruded upon by employers, preferring to keep their professional life and personal life separate.

“Candidates have been 50% more likely to apply to positions they found through Facebook than through other means, said Mr. Staney.”[Job boards] just blast it out. This is much more efficient and targeted," he said.” (Job Recruiters Turn to Facebook to Find Candidates - WSJ.com)

Apps developed by job hiring companies such as Monster are now being linked through Facebook as means to promote the idea of utilizing Facebook for job employment. Entitled BeKnown, the app is currently drawing over 800,000 monthly users. As a nifty incentive, employees of these companies are now being offered cash rewards for referrals through the app.

Although I see this as a nifty tool to have for those that don’t mind mixing business with pleasure, it’s an idea that won’t take off overnight. Most social media users don’t see Facebook as a professional tool quite yet, so a psychological shift in thinking is needed to take this idea to the next level.