Final answer:
Before joining an organization, it is beneficial for an employee to engage in preparatory learning activities such as Informational Interviews, Job Shadowing, and Volunteering. These activities help gain insights into the organization's culture and expectations. This knowledge is essential for a smooth transition and integration during the orientation and initial work period.
Step-by-step explanation:
Orienting to your New Work Environment
Before an employee officially joins an organization, they can take several proactive steps to learn about their potential work environment and culture. This preparatory process includes activities such as Informational Interviews, Job Shadowing, Volunteering, joining professional associations, and gaining Work Experience. By engaging in these activities, individuals can better understand an organization's values, priorities, structure, services, as well as the roles of their future colleagues.
Using online resources to research the labor market and conducting informational interviews with current or past employees are effective ways to gather insights. For instance, by learning about co-worker's names and titles, understanding employee roles, and discovering the type of work others do, a new hire can see how their responsibilities relate to the organization as a whole. Gaining this knowledge not only aids in remembering important details but also in anticipating questions that may arise during the hiring process, concerning the fit with the organizational culture.
Training and orientation are essential for integrating new employees into a company. According to FIGURE 13.9, training typically begins with an orientation period during which new employees are acquainted with company policies, practices, and culture. However, in the absence of formal orientation programs, it falls upon the new employee to proactively learn about their role and the organization, which could include observing and asking questions of peers. The aim is to establish credibility, demonstrate a strong work ethic, and eventually contribute meaningfully to the organization.