Impact of Social Media in Recruitment for the Digital Era
Author : Meera T and Dr. S Maruthavijayan
Abstract :
In today's digitally driven labor market, social media has emerged as a transformative force in recruitment, redefining how organizations attract, engage, and evaluate potential employees. This study examines the strategic integration of platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook into contemporary hiring practices, highlighting their influence on employer branding, targeted job advertising, and candidate outreach. Special attention is given to how data-driven algorithms personalize job postings, especially for younger generations with digital-first preferences. Beyond the operational benefits, the research explores critical ethical and legal considerations particularly privacy concerns related to social media screening, algorithmic transparency, and the potential for discriminatory biases in online assessments. Ultimately, this project underscores the need for clear policy frameworks that balance innovation with accountability in talent acquisition. In the evolving landscape of human resource management, social media has emerged as a pivotal tool in reshaping recruitment strategies across industries. Social media enables recruiters to reach wider and more diverse talent pools, personalize outreach through algorithmic targeting, and foster real-time interaction with potential applicants. The practice of screening candidates based on their online presence raises ethical concerns and necessitates a critical examination of data protection norms and antidiscrimination safeguards. This research aims to analyze the dual impact of social media its strategic advantages in talent acquisition and its legal-ethical implications through a multidisciplinary lens combining HRM theory, recruitment analytics, and employment law.
Keywords :
Digital recruitment, employer branding, online job portals, social media outreach, targeted job ads, virtual interviews.
