In which stage of the organizational socialization process would an onboarding program be provided? A) Mentoring B) Anticipatory C) Encounter D) Change and acquisition E) Networking
Answer (1)
The correct answer is C) Encounter.
The organizational socialization process is a series of stages that new employees go through as they join and become integrated into an organization. Understanding these stages helps businesses manage onboarding effectively to ensure that new hires adapt smoothly.
Anticipatory Stage : This is the phase that occurs before the individual actually joins the organization. It includes everything the potential employee learns about the organization and the job through research, interviews, and any pre-employment interactions.
Encounter Stage : This is when the new employee starts working in the organization. This stage is marked by their transition from being an outsider to an insider. It is during the encounter stage that the onboarding program is typically provided. The onboarding program is crucial in helping the new employee understand the organization’s culture, structure, roles, and expectations. This aids them in adjusting to the new environment and becoming productive.
Change and Acquisition Stage : In this final stage, the new employee has learned to master the skills and behaviors needed to perform their job effectively. They have adjusted to the organization's values and norms, and they become fully integrated members of the organization.
Providing an onboarding program during the Encounter stage helps new employees gain the necessary understanding and practical knowledge to transition smoothly into their roles, making the initial period of their employment as productive and supportive as possible.
