Job matching

Explainer

Job matching is not about convincing an employer to ‘take someone on’. It’s about showing value, solving problems and positioning the jobseeker’s strengths as a business asset – when done well, it feels collaborative, not persuasive. 

Last updated: 19 May 2026

"It’s all preference based, it’s person centred, you know. We’ll look at the person’s skills and then try and match it." 

"a huge part of it is about getting the right match, getting the right fit for the employer and for the individual, getting the support right as well." 1

Employment services provider
Slide 1

Overview

Job matching is the process of finding the right role for the right person. It involves taking the information about the person's skills, interests and support needs, and their conditions for success and looking at the results of your job analysis to find a role that fits with the person.2 

The job matching process requires understanding how the employer can benefit from the unique contributions of the jobseeker and what is needed to turn a good match into a workable job.3

Quality job matching increases job retention and employer and employee satisfaction.4

Key strategies for success

Job matching is a relationship-building process and must be driven by the strengths and interests of the jobseeker. Key strategies to support this process include:

  • having a deep understanding of the specific tasks within the job, not just relying on job titles 
  • focusing on identifying a job that matches the person’s individual strengths and circumstances instead of focusing on job vacancies
  • focusing your engagement with employers on their unmet needs and real workflows – employers respond to solutions, not needs.5 6

Job matching isn’t just about finding a job someone can do – it’s about creating the conditions where they can gain and keep employment while thriving and growing.  When the fit is right, people succeed faster, employers feel confident and the job becomes sustainable.

Tip for employment services

Most good jobs are found through targeted, informed outreach and job seekers’ contacts, not through job ads.

This video from the British Association of Supported Employment (BASE) provides hints and tips on job matching and securing employment.
Video
  • Training and education