International mobility of apprentices and development of organizational socialization

This article presents the initial findings of a large-scale research project (2023–2026) examining the relationship between European mobility for apprentices and its impacts on the stakeholders of apprenticeship programs. The aim of this study, based in management science, is to analyze the development of the organizational socialization process through the lens of social exchange theory (Blau 1964; Gouldner 1960), focusing on a population of apprentices (n=105) engaged in “long” European mobility experiences (ranging from 60 to 120 days). The study tests the relationships between proactive socialization behaviors (seeking information, feedback, relationships with supervisors, networking) and socialization domains (social integration and task mastery) using quantitative methods (mean comparisons, regressions). The results reveal a limited relationship between networking and the socialization domains, as well as a significant impact of the duration of mobility on these domains. This research will enhance the understanding of the mechanisms of organizational socialization, elucidate the effects of European mobility on apprentices’ socialization, and engage in discussions regarding the evolving practices of training and mobility in France and Europe.