Adding a Free Text Field

Free text fields let you capture additional information that doesn't fit into predefined lists or formats. These fields are flexible and useful for storing unique details such as IDs, notes, or other custom values that matter to your workflow.

If you want to learn more about the custom field types available, see Custom Field Options

Common Use Cases

Recruitment teams often use free text fields for:

  • Custom identifiers, such as security clearances, reference numbers, or internal codes.

  • Supplemental details, like pay notes, compliance details, or short instructions.

How to Add a Free Text Field

  1. From the Bullhorn Menu, select Admin > Field Mappings.

    • S-Release: Go to Tools > Field Mappings.

  2. Expand the entity where you want to add the field.

  3. In the Field column, type "customText" and press Enter.

    • This displays all custom field types (customText and customTextBlock).

  4. Select an unused customText or customTextBlock field from the list.

    customText fields have a limit of 100 characters. If you need to store longer text, use a customTextBlock instead.

  5. In the pop-up window, complete the field settings:

    Field

    Description

    Display

    The label users will see inside Bullhorn.

    Edit type

    Choose the edit type that matches the custom field you selected:

    • Text – Standard free text entry.

    • Text SSN – Masks the field to hide sensitive information (customText only).

    • Text Block – For customTextBlock fields; allows multi-line text.

    • Text Block Large – For customTextBlock fields; offers an expanded multi-line text area.

    Required

    Selecting this option will make the field mandatory when saving the record.

    Hidden

    Selecting this option will hide the field from the record layout.

    Allow Multiple Values

    Allows users to choose more than one record.

    Some field types do not support multiple values.

    Sort Order

    Enter the number that determines where this field appears on the Edit screen.

    Sort orders must be unique.

    Leave spacing between fields (for example, 130, 135) so you can easily add more fields in between them later.

    Value List

    Leave blank. Free text fields allow users to type any value.

    Display List

    Leave blank. Free text fields do not use display values.

    Default Value

    Leave blank unless you need a default text value (e.g. a template).

    Description

    Optional; A short explanation that appears under the field to help users understand its purpose.

     

    Hint

    Optional; helper text that appears inside the field in grey.

  6. Click Save.

    • You may need to refresh your Bullhorn session to see the changes.