The Six Dimensions of Socialization in Business

There are six dimensions of socialization tactics used in business. These tactics are used to welcome and involve new employees. The six dimensions are all used to socialize employees, but they have different aspects that make them suitable for different situations. This article will discuss the six dimensions of socialization in business.

History

Every organization has history, and as a new employee is part of a company they will learn much about the history of the organization. Many new employees will learn about the history of a business during orientation, and this is an effective an appropriate time to explain customs and traditions associated with the history of an organization to new employees (Britt & Jex, 2008).

Language

Language is a dimension of socialization that is inherent to every organization. Language may be overlooked but nearly every field uses a jargon that is particular to the job tasks. Language will pertain to a field of work as well as an organization itself. This is an important dimension of socialization that will affect the performance of an employee.

Politics

Another dimension of socialization in business is politics. All new employees will "gradually begin to understand the politics or unwritten rules that govern behavior within the organization" (Britt & Jex, 2008, Ch. 3). This is a means of socialization that can be addressed in the beginning of employment and it can evolve throughout.

People

People and social relationships are a large part of the dimensions of socialization in business. All new employees will "belong to some group or unit, so they must establish and maintain good working relationships with others" (Britt & Jex, 2008, Ch. 3). This is an area of socialization that organizations must focus on for a business to run smoothly.

Organizational Values and Goals

An employee is chosen to represent organizational values and goals of the business they work for. This dimension of socialization is important because the values and goals of an organization should match with the employee.

Performance Proficiency

Another dimension of socialization is performance proficiency. When a new employee is brought into a business they must learn how to perform at a proficient level. This part of socialization is complex because it requires new employees to become skillful of their jobs and the knowledge necessary to complete the tasks assigned to them.

The six dimensions of socialization in business are important to any organization. All of these dimensions will impact how employees are socialized, and they should be considered when determining how to socialize employees.

Reference

Britt, T. W., & Jex, S. M. (2008). Organizational Psychology: A Scientist-Practitioner Approach (2 ed.). New York, NY: Wiley.