The Impact of Social Media on The Quality and Quantity of Job Applicants

This research presents a comprehensive secondary data analysis examining the multifaceted impact of social media platforms on both the quantity and quality of job applicants. The study synthesizes findings from 25 peer-reviewed journals and industry research databases spanning 2018-2025. Key findings indicate that social media recruitment has substantially increased application volumes by 47-134% across diverse organizational sectors, yet quality metrics demonstrate significant platform-dependent variation. LinkedIn-sourced candidates consistently demonstrate 23% higher retention rates and superior performance ratings (7.4/10) compared to other social media platforms (Facebook: 5.8/10). Cost-per-hire analysis reveals that while social media reduces direct recruitment expenses by 40-87%, adjusted costs accounting for hire failure rates show more modest genuine advantages. The research reveals substantial quality-to-quantity tradeoffs requiring strategic platform selection, demographic targeting alignment, and integrated recruitment approaches. This paper provides empirically grounded insights into recruitment channel effectiveness, comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, demographic and sectoral variations, and evidence-based recommendations for optimal social media recruitment strategy implementation.