Using LinkedIn Could Hinder People's Ability to Find a Job

Newswise — Social media, especially the networking and employment site LinkedIn, has transformed the job search process, with an estimated 75% of job searchers using the platform to find a job and most recruiters using it to find applicants, but is that a good thing?

Researchers from Louisiana State University and University of Central Florida analyzed data from a survey of 1,897 job applicants over five weeks in a large urban area in the southeast U.S. They found that the vast amount of information and connections available on LinkedIn can overwhelm job-seekers and cause them to struggle with willpower and concentration. Additionally, the fact that they can view other job applicant profiles can invite unfavorable comparisons that can make them question their value and capability. All of this can hinder their ability to find a job.

The research was published in the Journal of Applied Psychology.