Context, socialization, and newcomer learning

Abstract

In the current paper, we provide a formal taxonomy of the organizational context relevant to newcomer socialization. We also propose that what newcomers learn during socialization periods (i.e., socialization content) and how they could learn the new information and knowledge (i.e., socialization process) are two distinct but related aspects of newcomer socialization. Based on these conceptual developments, we establish a theoretical model that articulates the mechanisms via which different contextual factors may impact newcomer socialization content and socialization process. Implications and future directions related to this theoretical model are discussed.