Transforming from Outsider to Insider: A Study on New Employee Acculturation to Boost Retention

This dissertation in practice addresses the problem of practice at the National Defense University (NDU) concerning workplace morale, with a focus on new employees (defined as those employed for two years or less). NDU, a unique professional military education institution with a diverse mix of military, civilian, and contractor personnel, sought strategies to improve employee acculturation and foster a more positive command climate. This study explores the impact of current orientation practices on new employees' sense of belonging and morale. Through qualitative research methods, including 17 interviews, a survey sent to all new employees, orientation observations, and artifact analysis, the study investigates perceptions of both new employees and NDU leadership regarding new employee acculturation practices. The research identified promising practices for new employee induction and acculturation, such as long onboarding, intentional pre-onboarding strategies, mentorship, and community-building opportunities. For organizations like NDU, employee turnover happens more often than in non-military organizations; therefore, it is essential to encourage and enhance new employee acculturation to contribute to a supportive workplace culture that promotes employee belonging.