Toward a process model of newcomer socialization: Integrating pre- and post-entry factors for newcomer adjustment

Abstract

This study documents the influence of both pre- and post-entry factors on newcomer socialization. Using time-lagged survey data from 137 new employees from private sector organizations in Japan, our empirical analyses showed that newcomers' pre-entry career maturity was significantly related to their post-entry adjustment outcomes through person-organization (P-O) fit perceptions at entry. Career maturity was also significantly and positively related to pre-entry job search effort, as well as to P-O fit at entry. Furthermore, the results indicated that the effectiveness of supervisor and coworker support for enhancing newcomer adjustment varied depending on the level of P-O fit perception at entry. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed, and directions for future research are suggested.