Curated Resources on Social Media Planning for Professional Development
Introduction:
Maintaining a professional online presence is a critical skill for healthcare professionals today. These resources provide evidence and guidance on how social media can be leveraged responsibly for networking, knowledge sharing, and career advancement. As an MLT, understanding how to strategically engage with platforms such as LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and YouTube allows me to balance digital visibility with professional integrity, while avoiding misinformation or oversharing.
Scholarly References:
1. LinkedIn and Career Advancement
Nikolaou, I. (2014). Social networking web sites in job search and employee recruitment. International Journal of Selection and Assessment, 22(2), 179–189. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijsa.12067
Annotation:
This paper discusses the impact of social networking sites on professional opportunities, recruitment, and networking. It highlights how LinkedIn can enhance career visibility and relationships with peers. For my practice, it reinforces the value of keeping an updated, professional profile that reflects ongoing education and career goals.
2. WhatsApp for Healthcare Collaboration
De Benedictis, A., Lettieri, E., Masella, C., Gastaldi, L., Macchini, G., Santu, C., & Tartaglini, D. (2019). WhatsApp in hospital? An empirical investigation of individual and organizational determinants to use. PLOS ONE, 14(1), e0209873. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0209873
Annotation:
This study examines the use of WhatsApp in healthcare settings for professional collaboration and rapid information sharing. It demonstrates how secure messaging can support workflow efficiency and team communication. As an MLT, it validates the use of selective digital tools for professional communication and timely knowledge exchange.
Summary:
Together, these resources illustrate how social media can be harnessed intentionally for professional growth and networking. They help me craft a strategy that supports ongoing education, builds meaningful professional connections, and preserves discretion. By applying these insights, I can maintain a purposeful digital presence that enhances, rather than detracts from, my contributions to healthcare and laboratory practice.