NEWCOMER ADJUSTMENT AND SENSEMAKING IN REMOTE WORK ENVIRONMENTS Perspectives on remote onboarding in Higher Educational Institutions
Abstract
The transition to remote and hybrid work environments due to the advancements in
computer mediated communication and the COVID-19 pandemic, introduced challenges in
the process of onboarding new hires. This research presents a case study on the remote
onboarding process of new hires of Higher Educational Institutions in The Netherlands.
The existing theories in organizational socialization and newcomer adjustment, as well as a
reflection of the uncertainty reduction theory in the onboarding process are used as a
foundation for this study. Through a qualitative inductive analysis and semi-structured
interviews this study sheds light on the challenges of newcomer adjustment and sensemaking
in remote onboarding. Findings suggest four dimensions that affect newcomer adjustment and
sensemaking in remote work: 1) relationship building, 2) responsibility and accountability of
newcomer adjustment, 3) managing well-being and the sense of belonging and 4) information
seeking. This study makes three contributions. First, the study shows that the existing
frameworks on socialization are compatible in the onboarding process in remote and hybrid
work environments, as long as there are opportunities of relationship building between new
hires and peers. Second, communication in key for establishing connections and sensemaking
in the onboarding process, as communication is used in moments of uncertainty and sensemaking.
Last, the approach towards relationship building is multi-dimensional, as it not only
includes different ways of bonding, but also looks at the role of different stakeholders around
the newcomer and the need for clear onboarding policies.
Degree
Master theses
View/ Open
Date
2023-02-01Author
Schutte, Tessa
Keywords
Onboarding
remote work
newcomer adjustment
organizational socialization
sensemaking
Series/Report no.
2022:003
Language
eng