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Is Cybervetting Valuable?

Author

Listed:
  • Wilcox, Annika

    (North Carolina State University)

  • Damarin, Amanda K.
  • McDonald, Steve

    (North Carolina State University)

Abstract

Cybervetting is the widespread practice of employers culling information from social media and/or other internet sources to screen and select job candidates. Research evaluating online screening is still in its infancy; that which exists often assumes that it offers value and utility to employers as long as they can avoid discrimination claims. Given the increasing prevalence of cybervetting, it is extremely important to probe its challenges and limitations. We seek to initiate a discussion about the negative consequences of online screening and how they can be overcome. We draw on previous literature and our own data to assess the implications of cybervetting for three key stakeholders: job candidates, hiring agents, and organizations. We also discuss future actions these stakeholders can take to manage and ameliorate harmful outcomes of cybervetting. We argue that it is the responsibility of the organizations engaged in cybervetting to identify specific goals, develop formal policies and practices, and continuously evaluate outcomes so that negative societal consequences are minimized. Should they fail to do so, professional and industry associations as well as government can and should hold them accountable.

Suggested Citation

  • Wilcox, Annika & Damarin, Amanda K. & McDonald, Steve, 2022. "Is Cybervetting Valuable?," OSF Preprints f52a7, Center for Open Science.
  • Handle: RePEc:osf:osfxxx:f52a7
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/f52a7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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