Match percentage is Truffle's AI-generated indicator of how well a candidate aligns with your role. It analyzes candidate responses to your interview questions and scores them against specific criteria you've set for the job.
This article explains how match percentage works, what the scores mean, and how to use them effectively in your hiring process.
How match percentage works
Truffle evaluates each candidate's responses to your open-ended interview questions across specific criteria. Common evaluation criteria include:
Role alignment: How well the candidate understands the position and its responsibilities.
Motivation: The candidate's genuine interest in the role and company.
Communication style: Clarity, professionalism, and ability to articulate ideas.
Intent: The candidate's goals and how they align with the role.
Collaboration: Evidence of teamwork and interpersonal skills.
Creativity: Problem-solving approach and innovative thinking.
The specific criteria used depend on your job configuration. Truffle analyzes each response for clear signs of enthusiasm, specificity, and relevance to your role.
Scoring responses
For each question, Truffle looks for indicators of a strong or weak answer.
Example: For the question "What stood out to you about this role?"
Strong answer: References specific details from the job description, demonstrates enthusiasm, and shows understanding of the role's challenges.
Weak answer: Generic statements, vague interest, or responses disconnected from the actual role.
Each response contributes to the overall match percentage. The final score reflects how consistently the candidate delivered strong, relevant answers across all questions.
Interpret match scores
Match percentages help you prioritize which candidates to review first.
What the scores mean
90% or higher: The candidate consistently delivered strong, relevant answers that align well with your role requirements.
80% to 89%: The candidate showed good alignment with most criteria but may have had some weaker responses.
70% to 79%: The candidate demonstrated moderate alignment but may need closer review.
Below 70%: The candidate's responses showed limited alignment with your role criteria.
Manual Review: Match analysis wasn't generated, usually due to insufficient input or skipped questions.
Important: Match percentage is designed to help you prioritize, not replace your judgment. Always review candidate profiles, transcripts, and videos before making final decisions.
Use match percentage effectively
Prioritize your reviews
Start with candidates who have the highest match scores. This helps you identify strong candidates quickly, especially when reviewing high volumes of applications.
Sort your candidate table by the Match column to see top performers first.
Combine with other signals
Don't rely on match percentage alone. Use it alongside:
Team ratings: Star ratings from your team members provide additional perspective.
Team notes: Written feedback from colleagues who have reviewed the candidate.
Your own review: Watch video responses and read transcripts to form your own opinion.
Tip: A lower match percentage doesn't automatically mean a candidate isn't qualified.
Look beyond the %
Click into candidate profiles to review detailed responses, AI insights, and video highlights.