If I Knew Then What I Know Now: How Realistic Previews of Onboarding Influence Self-Selection and Expectations

Abstract

Extending research on realistic job previews (RJPs) and signaling theory, we propose realistic previews of onboarding as an essential, but often overlooked, component of RJPs, particularly in situations for which there may be unique, challenging, or displeasing aspects of the newcomer onboarding experience. Using a sample of over 200 working adults in various industries, we empirically tested two mechanisms explaining the effects of realistic onboarding preview during the recruitment phase—the self-selection effect and adjustment of expectations effect—in a randomized vignette experiment. We found realistic previews of a potentially disagreeable onboarding period increased withdrawal of candidacy decisions of participants and lowered their expectations. Our findings suggest that a realistic onboarding preview as part of the RJP has a significant impact on both the decision to stay in (vs. drop out of) a candidate pool as well as candidates’ expectations regarding the hiring organization.