A Configural Theory of Person-Environment Fit Through the Lens of Collectivism

Fit with multiple layers of the organizational environment is essential for the effective functioning of employees. However, our knowledge of complex co-influences of multiple person-environment (p-E) fit types on work outcomes remains mostly theoretical. Drawing on sensemaking theory and collectivistic cultural frameworks, this study develops a configural theory of p-E fit. We then apply a fuzzy set approach to empirically demonstrate that work attitudes (job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and turnover intention) are a function of (a) employees' holistic perceptions of p-E fit instead of independent fit dimensions; and (b) configurations consisting of multi-fit perceptions are formed in response to a confluence of both in-group and institutional collectivism. We also show that p-E fit perceptions are characterized by equifinality (i.e. multiple solutions exist for each work attitude). Our study not only applies a cultural lens to examine multi-fit models but also highlights the importance of fine-tuning complex collectivistic influences.