Social media has transformed the way people search for jobs, seek career advice, and connect with potential employers. While LinkedIn has long been the go-to platform for professional networking, new data from LiveMe reveals that a significant number of job seekers are turning to other social media platforms, such as Facebook, LiveMe, Instagram, and TikTok, to find job opportunities and career guidance. This shift highlights the growing importance of social media in shaping career paths and decisions.
Traditionally, job seekers would rely on job boards, company websites, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn to find employment opportunities. However, LiveMe’s data indicates a broader trend: 38% of people are now using Facebook, 31% are using LiveMe, 16% are leveraging Instagram, and 12% are turning to TikTok to search for new opportunities. These platforms offer unique advantages, such as community engagement, direct interaction with companies, and access to informal job postings that might not appear on conventional job boards.
The study also found that 55% of people seek career advice on social media daily, underscoring its role as a critical resource for job seekers. Whether it’s following industry leaders, participating in professional groups, or watching career-related content, social media provides instant access to a wealth of information and insights. Interestingly (and unsurprisingly) less than 25% of respondents rarely or never use social media for job information, highlighting its widespread adoption.
Nearly half (48%) of people report that they have received valuable career advice on social media platforms other than LinkedIn. This advice often comes from unexpected sources, including influencers, industry experts, and even peers who share their experiences and tips. Platforms like LiveMe have become valuable for these interactions, providing a space for users to connect, share, and learn from one another. That’s also why we’re seeing so many job trends pop up on TikTok - it feels authentic and relatable.
More than two-thirds (68%) of users follow industry professionals or thought leaders on social media to gain career guidance and discover job opportunities. These connections are invaluable, as they provide insights into industry trends, company culture, and potential job openings. Following the right individuals can significantly enhance one’s professional knowledge and network, opening doors to new career possibilities.
Also, in today’s world, social media is not just a tool for finding jobs; it also shapes career aspirations. LiveMe’s study revealed that 59% of people feel that social media has been somewhat or very influential in their career choices. The content shared by companies, influencers, and peers can inspire new career paths, motivate personal development, and influence decisions about industries and roles to pursue. Less than 20% of respondents said social media has not been influential, indicating its powerful impact on the majority.
When it comes to researching employers, 91% of people said that social media impacted their decision to apply for a job. Company reviews, employee testimonials, and corporate social media profiles offer a glimpse into company culture, values, and work environments. This information can be crucial for job seekers to determine if a company aligns with their career goals and personal values.
In today’s world, having a robust social media presence is crucial for job seekers. According to LiveMe’s study, 78% of people believe that maintaining a strong social media presence, such as a comprehensive LinkedIn profile or a professional Twitter account, is important for securing job opportunities. A well-crafted online presence can showcase one’s skills, experience, and professional persona, making them more attractive to potential employers. It also allows for a level of authenticity that a resume doesn’t.
Social media connections often lead to direct job opportunities. More than half of the individuals surveyed have been contacted through social media for a job opportunity, and a similar number have secured jobs through these connections. This highlights the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships on social media platforms.
It’s clear that social media is playing an integral role in the job search process. From discovering job opportunities and seeking daily career advice to researching employers and building a professional online presence, social media has become an indispensable tool for modern job seekers. As the landscape continues to evolve, embracing these platforms and leveraging their unique features will be key to navigating the job market successfully.
In this digital age, job seekers should not overlook the power of social media. By actively engaging with these different social media channels, following industry leaders, and maintaining a professional presence, people can unlock new career opportunities and achieve their professional aspirations.