How to Optimize Lists

This article outlines best practices you can employ to get the most out of lists.

Test List Criteria

When building a new list, you might not be certain which field value will give you the best results, especially when using a new custom field. By choosing to Create a List via Advanced Search, you can check your logic and familiarize yourself with the criteria you're planning to use.

The Advanced Search window works just like the List Builder, allowing you to select your entity record type (Candidates, Jobs, Leads, Placements, Sales Contact, Submission) and then select your criteria logic to see the total number of records that match this criterion. When you select Search, this area provides an overview of the matched entity records so you can review the results and make changes before saving your list.

Consider using ATS ID > Is > [test record #] to first run the automation using only test records, then remove that criteria once you're satisfied with the results.

List Criteria Testing Examples

Here are some scenarios where you may want to test list criteria:

• You're building an automation that focuses on candidates in active placements. You aren't certain if you'd like to see candidates associated with these specific placements or to see placements individually. Try both and compare your results!
• Has Note vs Last Note Date are examples of very similar fields that can give different results. Using Advanced Search lets you determine which of these field values will give you a more accurate reading for your unique use case.
• You want to segment an existing list to identify possible discrepancies. Start with the criteria, In List, then continue with AND/OR statements to identify particular groups within the list.
• Using date values can be a little tricky, but testing it in the Advanced Search section will give you a brief explanation of the data being used and if the records included in the list match before or after that date.
  

Multiple Values in Boxes

To improve list performance, it's recommended to add multiple values in a single box rather than using a separate box for each value, as in the examples below. Additional values can be added into the same box by pressing Tab after entering each value.