Steps of Small Group Socialization

According to Kory Floyd in the Communication Matters textbook

Antecedent Phase

Antecedent Phase

you haven’t joined yet, you’re thinking about the group in a general sense

Anticipatory Phase

you are about to join the group, thinking exactly what you expect from the group and its members

Encounter Phase

you meet the group, decide who will be the leader, reminding members of the expectations of behavior, setting official rules for conduct

Assimilation Phase

you start to accept the values, goals, and rules of the group. The group now has its own identity, and you are becoming an integral part of this group identity. Start enacting specific rituals and behaviours that signify you are part of it

Exit Phase

you and the other members exit the learning, work, and social groups, and the groups themselves may end