Introduction
The article in question dwells upon the role social media can play in job search. Saunders (2021) stresses that employers tend to rely on informal networks rather than more formal techniques when searching for the right person. Social media provide almost limitless opportunities for job seekers to become a part of these networks and get noticed. The author highlights the three major ways people can use to increase their chances of finding the job they need. One of these strategies is reviewing and responding to materials available from professional social networks such as LinkedIn. Sharing valuable data and one’s innovative ideas with a limited circle of members of the network is another method. The job seeker’s being unique and productive is displayed that way. Finally, the need to create networks and interact with all of their members is important to make sure that social links are strong enough to build a reputation and reach out to decision-makers.
Main Argument
The major point the author makes is that networking has been one of the basic grounds of hiring and job search for decades, and it is still a bridge between decision-makers and job seekers. Word of mouth has been the primary tool in many instances, and this technique has acquired the form of social media in the modern era. Technology enables people to reach each other without paying much attention to distance and other aspects.
Evidence
The beginning of the article is quite strong as Saunders (2021) provides certain statistics in the first paragraph. Such data always grab people’s attention and show the relevance of the issue and made claims. However, the author does not provide references to reliable sources to support the arguments, which makes the article seem less reliable. The article could benefit from the use of references to reputable sources such as peer-reviewed articles or reports from trustworthy organizations. The article includes many helpful recommendations, but they could be enhanced by the use of success stories. For instance, the author could add stories about particular people who landed the jobs of their dreams or hired talent. Thus, although being helpful and informative, the article lacks sound evidence that could make it much stronger.
Agreeing with the Argument
The author provides sound arguments that can hardly be refuted or neglected in the modern world. Networking remains the major way to reach the right person as people tend to trust people (or some sources of information) they know well enough. Instead of trying to believe a stranger trying to sell their selves and providing some papers, an individual is likely to believe reliable people’s opinions and perspectives regarding the candidate. Networking can answer the key question of whether the candidate can complete particular tasks in a specific environment. Social media can be seen as an innovative manifestation of word of mouth. People explore each other (values, expertise, perspectives) when interacting in social networks that are digitally based. Finally, being creative when networking and remaining committed to one’s values and professional goals are also aspects that cannot be underestimated.
Conclusion
The reviewed article is a valuable source for job search as it highlights some of the major peculiarities of the process. Saunders (2021) provides recommendations to job seekers, but HR specialists and decision-makers can also find many useful points. The author focuses on networking and ways to use social media effectively, which makes the article helpful. It is also inspirational as the author makes it clear that quite easy steps can help people address their professional goals. However, this article is also characterized by certain limitations. It could be improved by the use of sound evidence (for instance, reports, scholarly articles, success stories).
Open-Ended Questions
The reviewed article raises certain questions:
- To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement regarding sharing data with a limited circle of people?
- How can a person attract decision-makers and motivate them to join their network?
- How can non-professional social media (such as Facebook and Twitter or Instagram) be used in the job search process?
- What methods and techniques to create networks are the most effective? Can being active, sharing data, and interacting with everyone closely help in networking?
- What kind of qualities or skills will a person need to create effective networks? Can people acquire these skills or should they be inborn?
Reference
Saunders, T. (2021). Using social media to aid your job search: four things executives and others need to know. Forbes. Web.