Cookie policy
Cookies & your consent
Last reviewed June 25, 2026.
This page explains the cookies and similar technologies we use on thecandidate.com, and how you control them. It supplements our privacy policy.
1. Consent first
Analytics cookies are off by default. We use Google’s Consent Mode, which starts in the “denied” state, so Google Analytics 4 (loaded through Google Tag Manager) collects nothing until you opt in. On your first visit a banner offers two clear choices:
- Accept analytics— we set Google Analytics cookies and begin measuring aggregate, non-identifying usage.
- Decline— analytics stays off; only strictly-necessary and preference cookies are used.
We do not use advertising cookies and do not use your data for ad targeting on this or any other platform.
2. Changing your choice
You can change your mind at any time. Use the “Cookie settings” link in the site footer to re-open the consent banner and switch between Accept and Decline. You can also clear cookies in your browser; we will ask again on your next visit. If we materially change which cookies we set, we re-prompt everyone under the updated policy.
3. Cookies we set
| Cookie | Provider | Purpose | Category | Retention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| sb-* (Supabase auth) | First-party (Supabase) | Keeps you signed in when you create an account or claim a candidate page. | Strictly necessary | Session / up to ~1 year |
| tc_consent | First-party (The Candidate) | Stores your cookie-consent choice so we do not ask again and honor it on every page. | Preferences | 12 months |
| _ga | Google Analytics 4 | Distinguishes anonymous visitors to produce aggregate usage statistics. | Analytics (consent required) | Up to 2 years (set only after you accept) |
| _ga_<container> | Google Analytics 4 | Persists session state for Google Analytics 4. | Analytics (consent required) | Up to 2 years (set only after you accept) |
Exact cookie names from Google may vary by configuration; the table reflects the standard Google Analytics 4 set we configure through Google Tag Manager.
4. Categories explained
- Strictly necessary. Required for core functions like signing in and keeping your session secure. These cannot be turned off in our settings.
- Preferences. Remember choices you make, such as your cookie-consent decision.
- Analytics (consent required). Help us understand aggregate usage so we can improve the site. Set only after you accept.
5. Questions
For any cookies or privacy question, reach us through our contact form and include “Privacy request” in your message.