Top CV database searching tips

CV-Library has created a 5 minute tutorial with tips to help you get the most out of your searches and find the right candidates, fast! These simple Boolean search techniques will save you time and money. Below are some simple errors that are made when using the Boolean search technique.


Common Error

A common mistake made when searching for a CV or setting up a Watchdog (CV filter) when searching for an Account Manager with either Sales or Marketing in a CV is the following:

A current Watchdog (CV filter) or CV search:

Account Manager, Sales, Marketing

Using Quotations

Above shows an example of a Watchdog (CV filter) or CV search which may be returning some un-specific CVs. Without putting Account Manager in quotes, the system can search for Account and Manager separately in one CV, by putting the words in quotes the keywords have to appear together:

"Account Manager"

Using Brackets

If the Watchdog (CV filter) or CV search has been set up to find Account Manager with either Marketing or Sales experience then the Watchdog (CV filter) should be set up as below:

"Account Manager" AND (Marketing OR Sales)

AND and OR, should not be in the same sentence, so the brackets help separate them.

Multiple Keyword Searches

If the Watchdog (CV filter) or CV search had been set up to find all three keywords then it should be set up as below:

"Account Manager" AND Marketing AND Sales

If you wish to find any of the three keywords then just replace the AND with OR.

Still need help? Boolean Logic

How Boolean search logic works