What is person-environment congruence? Supplementary versus complementary models of fit

Abstract

This paper proposes that there are two types of person-environment congruence: supplementary and complementary. Supplementary congruence is the match between an individual and a group of people who comprise an environment, such as a fraternal organization. Variables such as individual satisfaction, performance, and tenure are used as indices of fit. Supplementary congruence is the rationale behind vocational counseling decisions. Complementary congruence is the match between an individual's talents and the corresponding needs of the environment. The strengths of the individual complement the needs of the environment. The success of complementary congruence is judged by organizational level variables, and is the rationale behind personnel selection decisions. Theoretical, practical, and methodological issues associated with both types of congruence are discussed.