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Cognitive Training for Jobseekers: Evidence from a Randomized Experiment

Author

Listed:
  • Benghalem, Hélène

    (University of Lausanne)

  • Bächli, Mirjam

    (University of Lausanne)

  • Tinello, Doriana

    (Univeristy of Geneva)

  • Zuber, Sascha

    (University of Geneva)

  • Cherubini, Mauro

    (University of Lausanne)

  • Aschwanden, Damaris

    (University of Geneva)

  • Kliegel, Matthias

    (University of Geneva)

  • Lalive, Rafael

    (University of Lausanne)

  • Pellizzari, Michele

    (University of Geneva)

Abstract

Cognition is likely to be important for job search, but its role is not yet well understood. We study an online field experiment with jobseekers registered at the Swiss public employment services. Participants were randomly assigned to an online cognitive training program designed to strengthen core cognitive abilities and transversal cognitive abilities relevant for job search. Combining administrative and survey data on employment and earnings, we find that access to cognitive training substantially increases employment rates and earnings while reducing reliance on transfer income. In a simple search model, these findings could arise when cognition improves search effectiveness leading to lower search effort but higher chances of employment.

Suggested Citation

  • Benghalem, Hélène & Bächli, Mirjam & Tinello, Doriana & Zuber, Sascha & Cherubini, Mauro & Aschwanden, Damaris & Kliegel, Matthias & Lalive, Rafael & Pellizzari, Michele, 2026. "Cognitive Training for Jobseekers: Evidence from a Randomized Experiment," IZA Discussion Papers 18886, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18886
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J64 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Unemployment: Models, Duration, Incidence, and Job Search
    • J62 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Job, Occupational and Intergenerational Mobility; Promotion
    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments

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