Why social media should be a part of every counsellor’s job

Social-media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok have transformed how students understand and access information, compare opportunities and present themselves.

While these platforms offer valuable opportunities for professional growth and connections for students, they also present challenges that counsellors must address. As social media becomes increasingly integrated into students’ lives, we must understand its impact and adapt our practices accordingly.

Social media as a source of information

First, social media provides students with extensive information about universities, scholarships, internships and job opportunities. It also provides networking opportunities and a platform to highlight students’ skills and accomplishments, while fostering a community where students can support each other.

Understanding and guiding students toward the positive aspects of social media and their use of it is a key part of the new era of university and career counselling. The changing landscape of education means that it is imperative for students and counsellors to be kept up to date and informed, and social media is one gateway towards understanding any new trends.

However, to work with the positive aspects of social media, we must first become keenly aware of the challenges and risks associated with social media in students’ lives. For example, the vast amount of information on social media can overwhelm students, and not all of it is accurate. Counsellors, as well as teachers, must teach students how to evaluate sources and verify information.

Risks of social media

Students also need to become aware that their online activities contribute to their digital footprint – and the importance this footprint plays in representing them to universities or employers.

Additionally, the increased use of social media and comparison of idealised portrayals can lead to unhealthy comparisons and decreased self-esteem for students. Counsellors must help students develop a healthy relationship with social media and focus on their unique strengths and goals.

Educating students about the responsible use of social media as well as how to make use of its benefits and mitigate its risks is an essential step in helping students achieve their academic and career goals.

What should counsellors be doing?

The university and career guidance process and curriculum must fully incorporate learning on digital literacy, online safety, digital footprints and networking strategies.

Educating students about the benefits and risks of social media has become crucial, and should begin early. For example, lessons on creating and maintaining professional profiles on platforms such as LinkedIn can begin as early as middle school.

Counsellors should therefore update their own online-technology skills, and make use of social media within their own department. Counsellors can use social media to engage with students through regular posts, live Q&A sessions and virtual workshops. This approach ensures that students are informed and engaged with the guidance process, while also keeping them up to date with global trends.

Furthermore, partnering with universities, employers and professional organisations on social media can enhance the guidance process. Counsellors can foster global citizenship through education by joining platforms such as Round Square, and by connecting students with valuable resources and international opportunities online.

Counsellors must commit to ongoing professional development to stay updated on social-media trends and best practices. This can include attending workshops, webinars and conferences focused on digital tools and their application in education and career guidance. By staying informed, counsellors can continuously improve their practice and better support their students.

The influence of social media on the university and career guidance process is a significant challenge for counsellors. By understanding its impact and incorporating social media into their practice, counsellors can provide more effective and relevant support to students.