Final answer:
The strongest predictor of performance in a range of jobs according to research by Schmidt and Hunter is cognitive ability. This finding relies on comprehensive evaluation methods in personnel selection, including cognitive tests like the Wonderlic Personnel Test.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to research synthesized by Schmidt and Hunter, which encompassed over 85 years of research in personnel selection, the strongest predictor of performance in a range of jobs is B) Cognitive ability.
This conclusion is drawn from various methods of candidate analysis and testing, where factors such as personality traits, emotional intelligence, and work experience are evaluated. However, cognitive ability often assessed via tests like the IQ test, has been found to be the most reliable indicator in predicting job performance across various types of jobs. This aligns with the case mentioned above regarding Robert Jordan, who took the Wonderlic Personnel Test (WPT) which measures cognitive ability, as part of a police force selection process.
It's important to note that while personality traits and emotional intelligence are also relevant to job performance, they are generally considered less predictive than cognitive ability. Employers may also consider other aspects such as work experience and specific job-related skills, but cognitive ability often takes precedence as a baseline measure of potential employee performance.