Testing a graduateness and employability skills model through the use of social media: findings from South Africa

Abstract

Purpose This study examined the influence of social media use on graduateness and the employability of exit students in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach The study used quantitative and descriptive research designs to test the proposed hypotheses. An online survey was used to collect the data from a study sample. A sample of 411 respondents was received, with structural equation modelling (SEM) being used to assess the model fit. Findings The study found that the direct effect of social media use on graduateness skills is significant. Secondly, the direct effect of graduateness skills on perceived employability is also significant. The results also showed existence of support for the mediation of graduateness skills on the relationship between social media use and perceived employability. Research limitations/implications The study provides empirical evidence to the proposed model and infers the potential role of social media in addressing issues related to graduateness and the employability of exit students. Practical implications In addressing the challenge of unemployment, the use of social media can potentially aid in matters of skills acquisition. Originality/value The results demonstrate how technology through the use of social media potentially fits within enhancing graduateness and employability skills.