Final answer:
In organizational socialization, the encounter phase is when new employees learn about the true nature of the organization and how to adjust their expectations. It involves learning both the material and nonmaterial aspects of the company culture through an effective onboarding process.
Step-by-step explanation:
In organizational socialization, the encounter phase takes place when a person is first hired and starts to learn the true nature of the organization and how to adjust their expectations accordingly. This phase is a critical time for both the individual and the organization, as it sets the foundation for the employee's understanding of company policies, practices, and culture. An effective onboarding process typically includes orientation sessions where new employees are introduced to the company's values, structure, and performance expectations, as well as the informal norms of the workplace.
Socialization in the workplace is not just about learning practical skills like operating office equipment; it also involves understanding and adapting to the social and cultural environment. Employees need to grasp both material culture and nonmaterial culture to become fully integrated into their new working environment.