Boolean search is powerful, but overbuilt queries quickly become fragile. Use simple patterns that your team can maintain.
Example query
- Keywords
- Backend AND (Java OR Kotlin)
- Location
- Berlin
- Filters
- NOT intern NOT junior
- Experience
- OTW filter
Start with one mandatory skill anchor
Pick one non-negotiable skill or title keyword first. Add optional synonyms with OR only after the base query works.
Use NOT to remove noise
Exclude irrelevant seniority or domain terms early. This is often more effective than adding more positive keywords.
Try this query in the live demo — 5 candidates, no signup required.
Combine Boolean with OTW filters
Keyword precision matters less if candidate intent is weak. OTW and recently OTW filters improve relevance immediately.
Save what works
Every high-performing Boolean query should be saved and named by role and market, for example Backend AND Berlin AND OTW.
Team consistency
Shared naming conventions for saved searches reduce duplicate work across recruiters in the same agency.
