This guide is a part of the ETF, ILO and Cedefop series of guides on skills anticipation and matching. It examines the role of employment service providers in skills anticipation and matching, and aims to support transition and developing countries in establishing and strengthening the role of these providers. It identifies outstanding initiatives and good practices from around the world, and gives insights into strategic choices and experimental practices that different countries have undertaken in their attempts to match skills supply with labour market demands. The examples provided make this publication a useful tool for labour market actors such as training providers, guidance and counselling officers, administrators and researchers. It is especially valuable for managers and professionals working in organisations that provide employment services.