Person-Organization Fit

Abstract

This article provides an introduction to the academic domain of person-organization (PO) fit. PO fit is a concept that resists definition. Instead, it is best thought of as an umbrella concept encompassing studies that explore the interaction of employees and the organization. Its foundations come from the person-environment fit literature about the determinants of human behavior. PO fit has four primary conceptualizations: supplementary fit, two forms of complementary fit, and perceived fit. Results of empirical studies typically show that high levels of PO fit are associated with positive outcomes for employees. However, in real world applications such as personnel selection, when people make decisions based on PO fit, it can lead to favoring in-groups and the exclusion of people unlike those in power. PO fit is generally thought to be a useful tool for integrating people into the organization rather than choosing whom organizations should employ.