Organizational socialization through employee orientations at North Carolina State University Libraries

Abstract

North Carolina State University Libraries has built a strong employee orientation program based on the belief that early socialization contributes to the success of new employees. Its orientation model includes a focused orientation session, a checklist, and individual meetings with key library faculty and staff. All aspects of the orientation focus heavily on socialization factors such as understanding the Libraries' mission and values, meeting key people within the organization, and becoming acquainted with other new colleagues. This paper details the Libraries' orientation approach and the research that supports it.