Selecting talent using social networks: A mixed-methods study

Previous studies on the use of Social Networking Sites (SNS) in personnel selection generally focus on examining this phenomenon in the selection process as a whole. However, personnel selection is a macro-process composed of several activities. This paper aims to investigate how human resource professionals use SNS in hiring decisions during the different stages of the selection process. The research uses an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach. The first study consisted of a questionnaire-based survey of hiring professionals with the intent to describe various aspects of current practice (n = 429). Survey data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The second study comprised semi-structured interviews with hiring professionals to provide a more in-depth, richer analysis (n = 24). Interview data was analyzed via qualitative thematic analysis. Results uncovered two types of users. Single-stage users emphasized efficiency concerns, whereas multiple-stage users mentioned to access profiles on an as needed-basis. Participants reported that the patterns of use could be quite complex and dynamic, with selectors revisiting the profile of the same applicant several times for different purposes, or examining profiles of the same applicant in different SNS. The assessment of SNS information is typically non-systematic, but some employers reported using scales, mainly in pre-selection. Evidence emerged of potential adverse effects during the selection process. Overall, this paper contributes to theory and practice by providing a better understanding of the use of SNS across the different stages of personnel selection. To our best knowledge, this is the first mixed-methods study of its kind.