Digital Society · Research article

From Likes to Career Strikes: Why Early Professionals Turn to Virtual Social Networks – A Qualitative Insight

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Retche P. ColegadoXavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan

▣ Read article PDFPublished in Volume 1 · 2025 · pp. 75–93

Abstract

Guided by Uses and Gratifications Theory, this qualitative study investigates why early-career professionals engage with virtual social networking sites and how these platforms contribute to personal and professional development. Five themes emerged: entertainment and coping, resource access, professional networking and growth, social support and community, and personal-professional balance. The findings underscore the need for digital literacy, professional identity management, and organizational support in using virtual networks for career growth.

Keywords

Career developmentDigital identity managementMotivationUses and gratifications theoryVirtual social networking

Citation & permissions

Suggested record: Retche P. Colegado. (2025). From Likes to Career Strikes: Why Early Professionals Turn to Virtual Social Networks – A Qualitative Insight. Xavier Ateneo Graduate Journal, 1, 75–93.

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