ABSTRACT
COVID-19 forced almost all forms of firms to opt for digitized business models. This impact was also found true for SMEs. In fact, the impact of pandemic was much drastic and therefore use of e-business models was opted not only to succeed but also to survive in the times of crises. However, there is severe knowledge and research gap with respect to the use of e-recruitment during pandemic and firm's sustainability. Especially with respect to SMEs the research inventory is not satisfactory to highlight impact of e-recruitment on firm's performance or sustainability. However, sustainability was the real issue and area for concern specially for SMEs at the wake of pandemic. Thus, this study has been conducted purposively to reflect the impact of e-recruitment through social media platform on sustainability of SMEs at the wake of pandemic. The research population includes top management of SMEs operating in Karachi and data has been collected through loose quota sampling. Analysis of data has been done through structural equation modeling which indicated that Facebook is perceived as an effective tool for e-recruitment by SMEs amid COVID-19.
ABSTRACT
Economic ties between Pakistan and China were developed from 1959 through Shahrah e Korakoram and the instigation of CPEC project has efficiently enhanced the economic and strategic ties between neighboring countries. However, outbreak of COVID-19 has posed various questions regarding the future prospects of CPEC and its significance especially for Pakistan. In fact, Pakistan and China both have worked together to devise strategies to deal with the prevailing issues. Though Pakistan was also surrounded by issues associated with balance of payments and pressure was also raised from IMF and FATA. However, there are some blessings also for the country as COVID-19 might also give Pakistan unexpected economic relief which may not only benefit CPEC but also Pakistan's economy. Therefore, to have realistic view regarding the impact of COVID-19 there is a need of thorough and proper research so as to have final stance regarding the issue. Though lack of authentic data regarding investment of CPEC as well as economic relief and COVID-19 are hindering in research and policy formulation, therefore, the focus of this study is towards the assessing of effect of COVID-19 on CPEC through the opinion of leading economists. The data was analyzed through SMART-PLS which indicated that COVID-19 is producing significant positive impacts economically and socially.