Question

Describe a “rite of initiation” that you experienced at a place of work. This could be described via a situation in which you began with the company as a new employee, or during a period of time in which your status within the company changed. In your opinion, are rites of initiation in the workplace a good thing?

Answer 1

Rite of initiation basically is the addressal of a new beginning in a special way. I had joined a new company and there, on the day of induction, I experienced the rite of initiation. The onboarding team of the company had brought several personalized gifts for the new joinees like company t-shirt with nick name of the employee, printed in the back, coffee mugs, stationary goodie bag, etc. The onboarding team had also conducted a flash mob to welcome the new joinees of the company. This was a great way to welcome new employees and set the tone and culture of the company. The rite of initiation made all the new joinees feel valued by the company and motivated them to work hard for the company.

Rites of initiation are a good way to make the employee feel special and valued by the company. These small efforts make the employee witness the paternalistic culture of the company. He can relate with the company in a better way. This also increases his motivation level for the new job or role and acts as a catalyst for his good performance in the company.