Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to describe the socialization experiences of new administrators in selected California community college districts in learning college and district information, in determining role expectations, and in understanding and adjusting to the operating norms. The effect of gender, ethnicity, being hired from inside or outside the college district, size of the college and district, obstacles and surprises encountered and recommendations for new administrator orientation programs were also investigated. Methodology. Descriptive research and qualitative analysis were used in this study. The sample consisted of thirty-two administrators who had been in their administrative role for not more than two years. Telephone interviews were used to collect data. Findings. Limited assistance and support were provided to new administrators. Less than one-half of the administrators were provided assistance and support in learning information about the district. Slightly more than two-thirds of the administrators were provided assistance in determining role expectations. The least amount of assistance and support provided was in understanding and adjusting to the operating norms of the college and district. Persons of color and White females received as much assistance and support as did White males. The greatest obstacles faced were the lack of standard communication systems and shared governance processes. Administrators were surprised by behaviors of some college personnel, role overload, stress, and the lack of evaluation and feedback on performance. Administrators stated that a formal, planned, orientation program was important. Conclusions. Few college districts offer a formal, planned orientation program. New administrators need assistance in understanding: the budget process, role expectations, and operating norms. Recommendations. New administrators should supplement assistance provided by seeking out additional information and assistance. College district personnel should identify needs of new administrators and provide orientation activities that include: college and district information, the budget process, personnel management strategies, and networking opportunities. Training organizations should provide skill development, with emphasis on leadership strategies, conflict management, interpersonal relationships and in identifying organizational norms.