Jacob scored well on an aptitude test because all other candidates scored poorly. What type of selection bias does this represent?

The situation described illustrates contrast bias. This type of selection bias occurs when an individual's performance is evaluated in relation to the performance of others rather than based on an absolute standard. In this context, Jacob's aptitude test score is perceived as favorable because he is being compared to candidates who performed poorly. The contrast makes his score appear even better than it might be if assessed independently of the other candidates’ results.

In talent management and selection processes, contrast bias can lead to the misjudgment of a candidate’s abilities and potential, as the evaluation is skewed by the group. This emphasizes the importance of using objective criteria for assessing candidates rather than allowing the relative performance of others to impact evaluations.