Examining the effect of newcomers' adaptability on proximal and distal outcomes of organizational socialization

We investigate the role of individual adaptability (I-ADAPT) in newcomer socialization by exploring its effects on the proximal and distal outcomes of the work-role transition process. Based on I-ADAPT theory, our study assesses how I-ADAPT affects the three key indicators of newcomer adjustment (i.e., role clarity, task mastery, and social acceptance) and, in turn, their effect on the distal socialization outcomes of job satisfaction, turnover intention, and work withdrawal. Using a 2-wave prospective design, we collected data from 280 newcomers recruited through Prolific. Results indicated that I-ADAPT dimensions differentially predict newcomer adjustment, with learning adaptability affecting role clarity, uncertainty adaptability affecting task mastery, and cultural adaptability affecting social acceptance. Additionally, role clarity mediated the link between learning adaptability and distal outcomes, whereas uncertainty adaptability had an indirect effect on turnover intention and work withdrawal through task mastery. Our findings highlight the value of I-ADAPT as a newcomer characteristic for effective onboarding and offer practical insights to managers and human resource practitioners.