Abstract
M.Inf.
The orientation of new employees is an important function in information services. This aids in the socialisation and development of new employees. This study sought to establish whether customised orientation programmes for different categories of new employees, is necessary at the academic information service of the University of South Africa. The importance, objectives, and the concept of socialization as an aspect of orientation, is examined. The process of orientation from the key players in the orientation process; the orientation needs of different categories of employees; the planning
phases, implementation and evaluation of the orientation training, was addressed. Finally, the orientation process at the University of South Africa Academic Information Service was presented, and proposals are made on how the current orientation process can be managed for maximum positive impact of all the new employees.