Date of Award

1-1-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Giovanni Caputo

Second Advisor

Dr. John Caputo

Abstract

Technology has allowed people to exchange information across multiple technological mediums and interact quicker, more easily, and more permanently. The purpose of this thesis was to determine the role social media plays in the hiring and screening process from the perspective of the applicant and employer. The study was rooted in the theories of Actor Networking, Issues Arenas, and Agenda Setting, while relying on concepts like digital divide to expand the breadth of work. An online survey was administered to 25 people who had been an applicant within the last year to gauge their use of social media and awareness of social media screening processes. Based on results from this group, social media was used frequently, but was not something that applicants believe should be used for professional screening. Five human resources professionals were interviewed and it was determined that they were already using social media to screen, but lack regulations from an organization or larger governing body. Social media is a relevant and encompassing component of culture, however there is not universal agreement on how social media should be used with potential applicants and current employers.

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