How social media is changing the world of hiring

In an ever-evolving world of work, social media has become a key player for candidates looking for jobs.

Research has revealed that job seekers are using social media to find roles, with Facebook becoming just as likely as LinkedIn to be used as a job search platform.

The Global Trends Report: State of Hiring Experience 2023 from HireVue found that 24 per cent of Australian job seekers are using Facebook to find work, with 25 per cent using LinkedIn.

Other social media platforms are being used for job hunting. HireVue’s data revealed that another 8 per cent are using Instagram, 6 per cent are using TikTok, and 4 per cent are using Twitter.

“The rise in the use of non-professional social media platforms for job searches is set to redefine the recruitment process in 2023. As candidates turn to more unconventional platforms in their job hunt, businesses must be quick to adapt,” commented Damon Pal, head of HireVue APAC.

“These channels can help employers attract a diverse pool of candidates, improve their employer branding, and streamline the hiring process by meeting candidates where they are already spending a significant amount of their time.”

According to HireVue, young workers are the ones driving this shift, with 41 per cent of Gen Z’s utilising Facebook in their job searches. Meanwhile, 38 per cent of Millennials are still preferring LinkedIn.

With this in mind, employers may be able to get ahead in the talent war by recognising these trends. Using social media may be a great way for businesses to secure young talent.

New methods of hiring may be necessary, as HireVue revealed that 53 per cent of Australian businesses experienced higher resignation levels in 2022 than they did in 2021.

The report discussed the issue with the “acting your wage” trend that is seeing companies increase their focus on retention.

Acting your wage is when an employee refuses to work above their contractual obligation.

This can happen for a variety of reasons. According to HireVue’s data, 50 per cent of those who admitted to acting their wage do so because they aren’t paid enough, 46 per cent do so because of inadequate work/life balance, and 37 per cent said they aren’t appreciated enough in the workplace.

Employers are reportedly responding to this by focusing on retention, with 43 per cent of businesses focusing heavier on their talent. The data revealed 52 per cent of companies are focusing on internal mobility, 48 per cent are introducing more employee recognition initiatives, and 42 per cent are increasing compensation.

Jack Campbell

Jack is the editor at HR Leader.