What does socialization in an organization refer to?

Socialization in an organization refers to the process of cultural acclimation, which is essential for integrating new employees into the company's environment. This process enables newcomers to learn and adopt the organization's values, norms, and expected behaviors essential for functioning effectively within the team. Through socialization, new hires become familiar with the workplace culture, which helps them understand how to navigate their roles and interact with colleagues.

Cultural acclimation influences employee satisfaction and retention by fostering a sense of belonging and alignment with the organization's mission. It goes beyond formal training programs, direct supervision, or conflict resolution strategies, which all serve different functions within an organization. While training can equip employees with specific skills, and supervision guides them through initial tasks, socialization focuses on the broader integration into the organizational culture, making it a critical aspect of the employee experience.