The majority of British workers say that social media has affected their career in a positive way, according to research from job board CV-Library.

The research surveyed 1,200 workers across the UK with 79% saying they believed social media has positively impacted their career. Nearly a quarter, or 24%, say that the posts they see and the people they follow on social media influences their career decisions. This number increases among 18-25 year old to 40%

The study also asked professionals to reveal the areas in which social media has helped them in their careers, these included Taking inspiration from others work (34%), Searching for jobs (19%), Researching businesses they’d like to work for (15%), Gaining career advice (14%) and feeling inspired to chase their dreams (13%)

CV-Library’s findings also revealed contrasting opinions on social media as 40% of workers say they find it demotivating to see posts from people who are seemingly ‘paid to do nothing’. Alongside this, 32% find it demotivating to see other people with great careers because they don’t like their jobs.

Among platforms, Facebook (39%) was chosen as the most influential for professionals’ careers and this was followed by LinkedIn (35%).

Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library commented, “It’s interesting to see that Facebook is a clear source of influence for workers, especially over platforms aimed at professionals such as LinkedIn. This can suggest that people are relying on their friends for career advice and inspiration more than connections within their industry.”