What is a Boolean Search?

A Boolean search is an advanced method that allows you to refine search results by using specific search terms. Boolean search strings use operators like AND, OR, and NOT to include or exclude certain terms, helping you narrow your search results. This technique, named after mathematician George Boole, is used in search engines and applicant tracking systems (ATS) to improve the accuracy of your search queries.

How are Boolean Searches Used in Recruitment?

Boolean searches help recruiters narrow their search results by adding parameters to their search queries. Instead of sifting through every candidate, Boolean searches allow you to include or exclude specific job titles, skills, or experiences, potentially making it easier to find the right candidate.

Basic Guide to Boolean Search in Recruitment

If you’re new to Boolean search in recruitment, it’s simpler than it seems. Here’s a basic guide:

Boolean Search Operators:

Let’s go over some basic boolean operators you will frequently use in recruiting searches. Operators are the phrases you can input into search engines to change the outcome of a search and deliver you candidate profiles that match your specific criteria.

• AND (+): Narrows your search by requiring multiple terms to appear in results.

  Example: "social media manager" + "Microsoft Excel" + "Canva"

• OR: Expands your search to include results with either term.

  Example: "environmental" OR "sustainable" science

• NOT (-): Excludes specific terms from your search.

  Example: "nurse" - "travel" resume

• Quotes (""): Ensures exact phrases appear in your results.

  Example: "content writer" + "B2B"

• Asterisk (*): Includes variations of a word.

  Example: community manage*

• SITE: and FILETYPE:: Used to search within a specific site or file type.
  Example: "technical recruiter" resume filetype:pdf

Pros and Cons of Boolean Search in Recruitment

Pros:

• Boolean search strings are widely supported by search engines and ATS platforms.
• They help refine your search to include only the most relevant candidates.

Cons:

• Boolean search in recruitment can be complex and time-consuming.
• A small mistake in your search string can lead to inaccurate results.

Alternatives to Boolean Search Recruitment

If Boolean searches seem too complex, there are other methods to find qualified applicants:

1. Employee Referral Programs: Encourage existing employees to refer potential candidates.

2. Employer Branding: Develop a strong employer brand to attract top talent.

3. Reconnect with Past Candidates: Revisit candidates who applied previously but didn’t get hired.

4. Use Niche Job Boards: Find specialized candidates through targeted job boards.

5. Automated Sourcing Platforms: Use tools like Fetcher to streamline the search process and receive curated candidates.

Boolean Searches Aren’t the Only Way to Find Talent

While Boolean searches can be helpful, they’re not the only option for finding top talent. Consider automated sourcing tools (like Fetcher 😉) that can deliver candidates tailored to your search criteria, reducing the time spent on manual searches.