Social Networking and Staff Performance in the University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the impact of social networking on staff performance in the University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. In today’s digitalized academic environment social networking is transforming communication collaboration and information sharing influencing productivity, engagement and job satisfaction. This research investigates how social networking affects staff performance, focusing on factors like information accessibility, workplace communication, relationship building and work-life balance. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, with data collected through structured questionnaires and interviews from both academic and non-academic staff. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to identify trends and key themes. Findings indicate that social networking can enhance staff performance by improving information sharing and supporting collaboration, fostering a more connected work environment. However, excessive use can also lead to distractions, negatively impacting productivity for some employees. Variations were observed across departments and roles suggesting the effects may be role-specific. Based on these insights, recommendations for university policy include balanced social networking use within professional boundaries to maximize benefits while minimizing distractions. This study provides valuable insights for institutional policymakers and administrators seeking to leverage digital tools to improve staff performance in Nigerian universities.