Person-Organization Fit
Person-Organization Fit (POF) is a concept in organizational psychology that refers to the degree of compatibility between an individual and their working environment. It is based on the assumption that a person's values, attitudes, and behaviors need to be compatible with the values, culture, and objectives of the organization for them to effectively contribute to its performance. The concept looks at how closely an individual's personal qualities align with those required to achieve success in the organization.
Person-Organization Fit (POF) typically covers three areas: the individual's skills, values and attitudes (their fit with the organization), the social context (the organization they work for and its environment) and the job expectations (the objectives and goals of the job). A ‘good’ fit is where an individual’s character traits (such as trustworthiness, commitment, and flexibility) are compatible with the company’s core values or desired behaviors. On the other hand, a ‘poor’ fit is where the individual’s character traits are incompatible with the company’s expected behaviors.
Person-Organization Fit is important to organizations because good fit between an individual and the organization improves job satisfaction and commitment, increases job performance, improves organizational commitment and loyalty and ultimately enhances the organization's image and reputation. It is also beneficial to the individual as it can lead to career success and satisfaction.
Organizations use Person-Organization Fit for various purposes such as recruiting and selection, performance evaluation, training and development, career decision-making, employee motivation and retention. Therefore, organizations should analyze candidates and employees to ensure a match between individual skills and the job requirements, and also to ensure that the individual's values and attitudes match those expected by the organization.
In conclusion, Person-Organization Fit is a concept used by organizations to ensure the right match between employees and the organization's culture and values. A good fit increases the employees’ job satisfaction, loyalty and performance, thus helping the organization to achieve its objectives.