Qu'est-ce que RIASEC — Holland Code ?
Definition
The RIASEC model, developed by psychologist John Holland, proposes that people can be classified into six personality types based on their interests and preferences: Realistic (hands-on, mechanical), Investigative (analytical, scientific), Artistic (creative, expressive), Social (helping, teaching), Enterprising (leading, persuading), and Conventional (organised, detail-oriented). Most individuals have a dominant type and one or two secondary types, forming a three-letter code.
In practice
The RIASEC model is widely used in career counselling, vocational guidance, and skills assessments (bilan de compétences). It helps individuals identify careers and work environments that are congruent with their natural interests — research consistently shows that person-environment fit predicts job satisfaction and career persistence. In Belgium, career centres and VDAB/FOREM/Actiris counsellors use Holland-based assessments as part of career exploration sessions. The model is less suited for senior selection decisions but is very useful for early career orientation, mid-career transitions, and professional retraining.
Key takeaway
The RIASEC model is best used for career exploration rather than selection — it helps individuals find directions that match their natural interests, a strong predictor of long-term career satisfaction.
Définitions connexes
Skills assessment
A structured process of analysing one's skills, aptitudes and motivations to define a professional or training project.
Career change
A significant change of role, sector or activity requiring the acquisition of new skills and a redefined professional project.
Personality Assessment
Standardised psychological tool measuring individual traits, preferences and behavioural tendencies to inform professional development or selection decisions.
Employability
An individual's capacity to find and maintain employment, based on the combination of skills, adaptability, professional network and market positioning they develop throughout their career.