The Benefits of Anticipatory Socialization

Anticipatory Socialization (AS) is a method of career planning that prepares students for future work. Students take anticipatory socialization assignments to gain the experience necessary to be successful in the job market. Such assignments help students develop a more accurate self-concept, allowing them to evaluate their future career choices. The benefits of AS programs go beyond the potential for a new hire to stick around. Students also receive a positive impression of the organization, which may be passed on to others.

Anticipatory socialization occurs when a person anticipates a new social situation. For example, a couple may live together before marriage to test if their compatibility will extend beyond a relationship. If a person can’t adapt to a new environment, they may avoid it altogether. However, anticipatory socialization is beneficial for individuals in these situations. Those who can anticipate a new social situation benefit from it.

As a result of anticipatory socialization, non-members adopt the norms and values of the group they don’t belong to. It involves changing attitudes and behaviors, including grooming, playing, and training. It originated in the US military, where officers model their attitudes on their privates. Similarly, anticipatory socialization has a positive impact on marketing strategies. In addition, it helps improve a company’s understanding of the information-gathering processes of consumers.

An employee’s anticipatory socialization begins before they enter the office or join an organization. Social interactions in anticipation of a new position or role facilitate anticipatory socialization, which helps a new employee integrate into the workplace and interact with colleagues. Anticipatory socialization helps employees to make friends quickly and fit in once they are welcomed into the organization. The benefits of anticipatory socialization are many. It makes life easier for everyone involved.