What Are Some Examples Of Assimilation?

Talking about assimilation theory is great – but sometimes an assimilation example goes further than any long-winded explanation. 

Today, we’re looking into different types of assimilation with examples to bring the academic, cerebral assimilation topics we’ve been discussing down to Earth. Learn about the four types of assimilation, learn how to assimilate a new leader into a new role, and explore three examples of new leader assimilation in action.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

What Are the 4 Types of Assimilation?

Understanding the various types of assimilation can provide valuable insights about how to effectively integrate new elements into your organization. Here are the four key types of assimilation:

1. Organizational Assimilation
   • This type of assimilation includes fostering alignment with your company’s best practices, preferred strategies, and overarching objectives. While there are many aspects of organizational assimilation, it’s largely about ensuring that new team members grasp the big picture of how your organization operates.

2. Cultural Assimilation
   • Cultural assimilation is all about absorbing and adapting to your organization’s cultural elements. It includes the formal and informal norms, your company’s vision, leadership ethos, and methods of resolving conflicts. The aim is to help new hires feel a sense of belonging and align with your company’s way of doing things.

3. Psychological Assimilation
   • Psychological assimilation happens when new hires start to internalize the company’s culture, which in turn begins to shape their outlook, thoughts, and behaviors. It’s when the organization’s culture transitions from being an external influence to an integral part of an employee’s identity.

4. Technological Assimilation
   • Technological assimilation might seem simple, but it can be a steep learning curve for many new hires. This form of assimilation involves familiarizing new hires with the technical tools, software, or machinery integral to your company’s operations. Successful technological assimilation means new team members are comfortable and proficient with the technology required for their roles.

What Is Assimilation in Business?

Assimilation in business is the process of integrating new managers, employees, ideas, processes, or systems into your existing organizational structure and culture. 

New manager assimilation aims to create cohesive and effective workforces closely aligned with the company’s objectives, values, and preferred approaches. Done correctly, assimilation creates a unified and harmonious environment that encourages collaboration, increases productivity, and drives organizational success.

What Are 3 Examples of Assimilation in Business?

Assimilation takes on many forms in business. Here are three examples of different forms of assimilation that each play a role in organizational success.

1. New Hire Training: A fresh recruit is trained to understand and align with the company’s methods and best practices, reflecting Organizational Assimilation.

2. Team-building Activities: Activities are organized to help a new member imbibe the team’s values and collaboration styles, exemplifying Cultural Assimilation.

3. Onboarding onto a Software Platform: A recent employee learns and adapts to using a new project management tool necessary for their role, illustrating Technological Assimilation.

How Do You Assimilate into Company Culture?

Assimilating into a company culture requires an open mindset, active participation, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement  

If you just started a new role and have been curious about how to streamline assimilation, consider trying these three tips:

1. Understand the Culture
   • Start by learning about the company’s values, norms, and expectations. This can be done through reading company materials, observing the behaviors of colleagues, and asking questions.

2. Participate Actively
   • Attend company events, join internal clubs or committees, and participate in team projects. This will help you understand the culture better and forge relationships with colleagues.

3. Adapt and Align
   • Once you understand the culture, begin to align your behavior and work practices with it. This doesn’t mean you have to lose your individuality, but it’s about finding a balance between fitting in and maintaining your unique perspective.

How Do You Facilitate New Leader Assimilation

The assimilation of new leaders is crucial for maintaining organizational continuity and effectiveness. Here’s how you can facilitate it:

1. Provide a Comprehensive Onboarding
   • Invest in creating an onboarding process that proactively anticipates and overcomes as many common and avoidable issues new hires face. 

2. Assign a Mentor
   • A senior leader or seasoned colleague can provide guidance, share insights about the company culture, and answer any questions the new leader might have.

3. Foster Open Communication
   • Encourage team members to openly share their expectations, concerns, and suggestions with the new leader. Arrange assimilation activities that eliminate conventional communication barriers, build trust, and spark rapport.

4. Work with a Trusted Partner
   • Collaborate with a trusted assimilation strategy partner like Medallion Partners to eliminate uncertainty and improve assimilation outcomes.

5. Continuous Support
   • Provide ongoing support in the form of feedback, additional training, and opportunities for reflection, upskilling, and learning.

If you’re looking for more information on facilitating new leader assimilation, read our New Leader Assimilation Template article.

How Medallion Partners Can Help

At Medallion Partners, we believe in equipping your new leaders for immediate success. 

Backed by industry-leading assimilation strategies, more than 15 years of experience, and a team of seasoned assimilation specialists, we’re ready to ensure your new leaders transition into your organization, adapt to your culture, and contribute to your success as quickly as possible.

Contact us today to start your journey toward sustained growth and success.