Using temporally-lagged data from 146 business and engineering newcomers, we found evidence for a "positive side" of plasticity theory (Brockner, 1988, p. 547) in fostering newcomer adjustment. Specifically, as predicted, we found that higher newcomer generalized self-efficacy positively moderates the association between job design (i.e., task…

Drawing upon role-making theory, this study examines which new job market entrants, following college graduation, find informal mentors and how much mentoring they receive from these mentors using a predictive design. Our results suggest that individuals lower in negative affectivity and higher in cognitive ability as well as women, individuals…

We surveyed 506 Australian high school students on career development (exploration, planning, job-knowledge, decision-making, indecision), personal functioning (well-being, self-esteem, life satisfaction, school satisfaction) and control variables (parent education, school achievement), and tested differences among work-bound, college-bound and…

Responses from 343 of 496 business/engineering graduates revealed different patterns of acquisition of information about their new job setting. The 105 who had mentors relied on observation and their mentors, the others on observation and co-workers. Mentored workers learned more about organizational issues and practices. (SK)

Three groups of subject-matter experts reviewed the content validity of the Newcomer Socialization Questionnaire. Its psychometric properties were supported in a study of 492 employed students; the study was replicated with 320 newly hired workers. Socialization dimensions were positively correlated with job satisfaction and organizational…

The critical incidents technique was used with 50 workers successfully coping with career establishment. The workers identified behaviors used to cope with six tasks: organizational adaptation, position performance, work habits/attitudes, coworker relations, advancement, and career choice/plans. Responses were organized into patterns of coping…

A literature review examined socialization theory and models; research on tactics, training, proactive socialization, learning, group socialization, and individual differences; methodology and measurement; and research needs. In the last five years, research has substantially contributed to knowledge of occupational socialization, which will…

Comments from Blustein, Eldredge, and Hesketh on research reported by Feij et al. on the role of proximal and distal context factors and the theories of organizational socialization and work adjustment. A rejoinder from Feij et al. clarifies some of the issues. (SK)

A survey of 859 entry-level workers from 8 European countries employed as machine operators and office technology workers identified the processes that account for the development of career-enhancing strategies and job content innovations. Supervisor or coworker relations and intrinsic work values were most important. (SK)

Data from 125 females and 377 males (40 percent response) in managerial careers indicated that women had similar total promotions and career satisfaction but lower salary increases, fewer management promotions, and lower hierarchical levels. Starting salaries and job levels, job mobility, line experience, and seniority affected career success. (SK)