Joonestamisprogrammide

Joonestamisprogrammide, or job placement programs, are public or private initiatives designed to help job seekers find employment and to connect employers with suitable candidates. They are typically a core element of active labor market policies and may be funded or administered by government agencies, social partners, or contracted service providers. The aim is to reduce unemployment duration, improve skill–vacancy matching, and raise earnings mobility.

Programs usually combine services such as career counseling, labor-market information, skills assessment, job matching, and referral to vacancies. They may include training, apprenticeships, wage subsidies, or subsidized employment to facilitate transitions. Additional supports can cover transport, childcare, language or digital literacy, and ongoing coaching to support retention and progression.

Target groups include youth, long-term unemployed, low-skilled workers, older workers, people with disabilities, minorities, and others facing barriers to employment. Delivery often occurs through public employment services, with partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and private providers. Digital platforms and automated matching are increasingly used to widen reach and efficiency, while collaboration with employers helps ensure demand-driven training and opportunities.

Effectiveness is typically measured by placement rates, job retention, earnings gains, time to employment, and cost-effectiveness. Critics note potential inefficiencies, varying outcomes across groups, substitution effects, and the risk that programs may stigmatize participants or fail to address deeper productivity constraints. Ongoing evaluation and program redesign are common to improve impact and sustainability.

See also: Active labor market policies; Public employment services; Wage subsidy programs.