Qu'est-ce que IQ Test / Cognitive Ability Test ?
Definition
Cognitive ability tests (sometimes called IQ tests or general mental ability tests in selection contexts) measure reasoning speed and accuracy, verbal and numerical comprehension, logical thinking, working memory, and problem-solving capacity. Unlike most personality tools, cognitive tests have objectively correct answers and are timed.
In practice
Meta-analyses consistently identify general cognitive ability as the single best predictor of job performance across virtually all occupational roles — with validity coefficients around 0.51 when combined with structured interviews. In selection, commonly used tests include Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (verbal reasoning), SHL Verify (numerical and inductive reasoning), Raven's Progressive Matrices (non-verbal reasoning), and Wonderlic. In Belgium, cognitive assessments are frequently used in selection for professional and managerial roles, particularly in financial services, consulting, and engineering. One important consideration: cognitive tests can show adverse impact against certain demographic groups, requiring careful validation and norm selection. They should be combined with other assessment methods to ensure a holistic and fair evaluation.
Key takeaway
Cognitive ability is the most powerful predictor available to recruiters — when properly validated and administered, it provides objective data that subjective interviews cannot replicate.
Définitions connexes
Psychometrics
The science of measuring psychological attributes — abilities, personality, attitudes — through standardised, validated tests.
Assessment Centre
Standardised evaluation method combining multiple exercises (role plays, case studies, group exercises, psychometric tests) to assess candidates' competencies.
Big Five — OCEAN Model
The most scientifically validated personality model, measuring five traits: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism (OCEAN).
Technical Test
Practical exercise assessing a candidate's specific technical skills relevant to the job — coding test, design brief, writing sample, financial model.