Maintain a reusable search log
Course overview · 4 min reading + 12 min practice, estimated
Principles and method
Record the query, platform, date, filters, sample findings and next change. Save successful patterns with their intended scope, not as universal strings. Revisit title variants and source availability when entering a new market. De-duplicate research across channels without losing provenance. Share negative findings carefully: no result may mean a poor query or limited visibility, not a nonexistent capability. Review the effort spent per useful lead and the quality of the resulting conversations. A good search library stores reasoning that another sourcer can adapt.
Worked example
A query works for UK maintenance leaders but performs poorly in Germany because job terminology differs. The log captures the context and local variants instead of treating the original query as a global standard.
Put it into practice
Write a search log for three iterations, including a failed query and a next test.
Use fictional information and keep your work in your own notes.
Compare your approach: self-review guidance
Each iteration should identify what changed and what the sample showed. Include dates and syntax assumptions. Keep failure notes because they prevent repeated effort and reveal coverage limitations.
Sources and further reading
Original Academy teaching and fictional examples. These references provide context, not endorsement. Edition 2026.09; updated 2026-09-24.
- CIPD: Recruitment
Professional context for the recruitment lifecycle.
- ICO: Recruitment and selection
UK guidance. Check its current status and updates before implementation.