It's Not Fair! Are Applicant Reactions to Personal and Professional Social Media Screenings Similar?. Issue 3 (8th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Armenteros, Natalie; Hatem, Aniqa; Heron, Laura Mary; Viswesvaran, Chockalingam
• Is Part Of: Human performance. Volume 35:Issue 3/4(2022)
• Page Start: 241
• Page End: 260
• Publication Date: 2022-08-08
• Subjects: Performance -- Periodicals; Psychology, Industrial -- Periodicals; 158.7
• DOI: 10.1080/08959285.2022.2110104
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0895-9285

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The use of social media in selection processes to gather information about job candidates is a heavily debated and controversial topic. However, research that focuses on whether applicant reactions differ when social networking sites (SNSs) are screened is limited. This study used a quasi-experimental design to examine perceptions of face validity, predictive validity, and test fairness when personal (Facebook or Twitter) versus professional (LinkedIn) profiles are screened. The moderating role of self-monitoring was also explored. Findings demonstrated that applicants react negatively to screenings involving personal SNSs. High self-monitors had favorable face validity and predictive validity reactions to a professional SNS screening, but the opposite effect was found for personal SNSs. Practical implications for organizations and future directions for research are discussed.