Training business students to use online networking for self‐development

Abstract

AbstractThis paper contributes to understanding opportunities to use social media for developing online networking skills that can be applied in entrepreneurial self‐development. Analysis of business students' changing priorities in finding and using online social networks during the years 2008–2019 demonstrated the dominance of Facebook and, more recently, Instagram, compared to LinkedIn and more specialized networks for entrepreneurs. Students involved in knowledge sharing for travelling, sports, music and online gaming have a more detailed understanding of online social media as entrepreneurial self‐development tools. Recent years demonstrated some desire to integrate online communication and joint actions in physical locations. Students need a deeper understanding of how their online communication and networking priorities can be aligned with their entrepreneurial network development and knowledge sharing priorities through social media. Our longitudinal research of student priorities in online social network use demonstrates to educators the importance of understanding the self‐development paths of students when improving their skills to use online networking. Higher education should guide students to use online media to trace new entrepreneurship opportunities, expand their contact network and prepare them to reflect critically on online information dissemination practices.