Social media usage and job performance: a sequential mediation analysis with social capital, self-efficacy, job satisfaction and knowledge sharing

Abstract

PurposeSocial media use is prevalent today, but there is a possibility that it might go out of control and cause negative consequences. Furthermore, by using social media at work, businesses may develop their networks, communicate in a productive manner and ultimately expand the efficiency. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of social media use (SMU) on job performance (JP) through sequential mediators such as social capital dimensions (SC), self-efficacy (SE), job satisfaction (JS) and knowledge sharing (KS) in Indian Public Universities.Design/methodology/approachSerial mediation model has been used in the study to analyse the relationship. Data is collected from teaching faculty (n = 702) who use social media in Indian public universities. The study has assessed the association between variables using structural equation modelling.FindingsThe findings suggest that the dimensions of SC, SE, JS and KS sequentially mediated the effect of SMU on JP. In light of the results, the SMU specifies prerequisites for the development of various dimensions of SC. Similarly, the rest of the mediating constructs further affect the other constructs, which ultimately positively affect JP. The final result shows that the indirect effect between social media use and job performance is positive and significant.Practical implicationsThe study provides practical suggestions for university administration regarding the use of social media for teaching faculty.Originality/valueNo research has been done regarding social media use affecting the job performance of teaching faculty through serial mediation in public universities. In this respect, this study represents an original attempt to conduct such research.