GLOSSARY
Boolean Search
Boolean search uses AND, OR, NOT operators and quotation marks to filter candidates in an ATS or on LinkedIn. In 2026, it's largely replaced by AI semantic search.
IN DEPTH
Boolean Search is a classic search method combining keywords with logical operators: AND, OR, NOT, "exact phrases", and parentheses. Example: ("DevOps" OR "SRE") AND "AWS" AND (Paris OR Lyon) NOT junior. Historical method of recruiters on LinkedIn Recruiter and legacy ATS. Major limitation: becomes ineffective beyond 10,000 profiles and ignores industry synonyms. A "fullstack JS dev" is not found by "React/Node development engineer" search. AI semantic search (native in Cobalt) replaces Boolean search in 2026 with -70% time and +300% relevance.
Frequently asked questions
Yes for specific one-off searches on LinkedIn Recruiter. But ineffective for internal databases >10,000 profiles. AI semantic search (Cobalt) is 3x faster and 5x more relevant.
AND (both terms), OR (either), NOT or - (exclusion), "quotation marks" (exact phrase), () parentheses (grouping). Example: (Python OR Java) AND "machine learning" NOT junior.
Related terms
- Semantic SourcingSemantic sourcing uses AI to understand natural language queries (e.g., "DevOps AWS 5 years Paris available March") and retrieve relevant candidates without Boolean search.
- AI Matching (candidate-mission)AI matching uses machine learning models to evaluate a candidate's relevance to a mission by crossing skills, experience, availability and cultural fit. It replaces Boolean search.
- ATS (Applicant Tracking System)An ATS is a candidate management software that centralizes, sorts and advances candidates through a recruitment process, from application to hire.
RELATED ARTICLES
- IT Candidate Sourcing: The Complete Guide to Finding Top DevelopersDiscover the 8 most effective sourcing techniques to identify and attract tech talent. Boolean search, GitHub, LinkedIn: master all channels.
- Semantic Search vs Keyword Search: What It Actually Changes for a Staffing FirmMost ATS and CRM platforms still rely on keyword search. AI is changing the rules. Here's what it actually means for your BMs, your placement speed, and your bottom line.
- Why Your CV Database Is Your Biggest Untapped AssetStaffing firms accumulate thousands of profiles they never leverage. Here's why it's the most expensive problem in the industry — and what it really costs.
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