Compare organizational assimilation theory and organizational information and control (OIC) theory. Specifically, how might the two theories overlap to explain a newcomer’s socialization and progress within the organization?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Response should focus on the last stage in organizational assimilation
(metamorphosis) and the first stage in organizational identification and control
theory. Specifically, OIC begins with an employee “identifying with” or feeling a
sense of belonging to an organization. When individuals experience
identification, they define themselves in relation to the organization. For example,
“We landed a new client today!” This identification seems to overlap with the
metamorphosis stage of organizational assimilation, where a newcomer
internalizes the values and behaviors in order to fulfill organizational expectations
(socialization) while simultaneously seeking to have an impact on his or her role
and work environment (individualization). Thus, the two theories overlap in that
where organizational assimilation ends (the employee becoming socialized), OIC
is just beginning.