Job search strategies and social networks : evidence from the Khayelitsha

Schöer, Volker

Job search strategies and social networks : evidence from the Khayelitsha

Master Thesis

2004

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

School of Economics

Faculty

Faculty of Commerce

Abstract

The thesis investigates factors which determine the choice of the search method used by the unemployed in looking for jobs. In line with the existing literature on job search in South Africa we identify that job search is constrained by the low probability of finding a job and the cost of job search. Especially in the context of mass unemployment, job seekers have to evaluate the benefits and costs of job search. It has been suggested that as a response to adverse conditions of the labour market, the use of social networks is an important search strategy in getting access to the labour market. This thesis therefore pays especially attention to social networks. We develop a more formal search model to establish how certain factors can either constrain or facilitate the search process.

Description

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 58-61).

Keywords

Economics

Reference:

Collections

Masters

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