Finding the Perfect Fit : A Study of Person-Organisation Fit Between Generation Z and Employers

Abstract: This thesis explores the conditions for perception of a person-organisation (P-O) fit between Generation Z (Gen Z) and employers in a talent acquisition context. The study is based on the presumption that the perception the candidate gets of the employer is based on the employer’s brand and vice versa. To explore these two actors' brands, personal- as well as organisational attributes identified in a literature review were used and a mixed method was adopted. The employer brand of six audit and accounting services firms and what they value in a future employee was explored through semi structured interviews. Furthermore, the personal brand of Gen Z business students and graduates and what they value in a future employer was explored through a questionnaire with 157 respondents. Based on the data, a discussion on the subject of P-O fit was conducted. Overall the results of the study both support previous research and add to it. The results indicate favourable conditions for Gen Z to perceive a P-O fit towards employers regarding four of the six identified organisational attributes. Additionally, favourable conditions were indicated regarding employers to perceive a P-O fit towards Gen Z regarding four of the seven personal attributes identified.