From Query-By-Keyword to Query-By-Example

Abstract

One key challenge in talent search is to translate complex criteria of a hiring position into a search query, while it is relatively easy for a searcher to list examples of suitable candidates for a given position. To improve search efficiency, we propose the next generation of talent search at LinkedIn, also referred to as Search By Ideal Candidates. In this system, a searcher provides one or several ideal candidates as the input to hire for a given position. The system then generates a query based on the ideal candidates and uses it to retrieve and rank results. Shifting from the traditional QueryBy-Keyword to this new Query-By-Example system poses a number of challenges: How to generate a query that best describes the candidates? When moving to a completely different paradigm, how does one leverage previous product logs to learn ranking models and/or evaluate the new system with no existing usage logs? Finally, given the different nature between the two search paradigms, the ranking features typically used for Query-By-Keyword systems might not be optimal for Query-By-Example. This paper describes our approach to solving these challenges. We present experimental results confirming the effectiveness of the proposed solution, particularly on query building and search ranking tasks. As of writing this paper, the new system has been available to all LinkedIn members.

Entity Personalized Talent Search Models with Tree Interaction Features

“…An exploratory work on utilizing representation and deep learning models for talent search is presented in [23]. ere has also been a shi from querying by keyword to querying by example in talent search models [8]. Finally, search by ideal candidates approach prompts recruiters to enter ideal candidates for their open position's requirements, and a query is generated based on these ideal candidates [7].…”