Episode 282 - The New Era of Job Searching: What’s Changed and Why It Matters
The job search process has undergone a radical transformation. Today, AI-driven tools, automation, and evolving hiring trends dictate how professionals land their next roles. For experienced corporate professionals and executives, this shift presents both challenges and opportunities. If you are still using traditional job search methods, you may be unknowingly sabotaging your success. In this interview with Garrett Rice, former Apple product manager and co-founder of Callings.ai, we break down how AI is reshaping the hiring process and provide actionable strategies to help you stay ahead.
Why AI is Now the Gatekeeper to Your Next Job
One of the biggest shifts in job searching today is the dominance of AI-powered hiring systems. Companies are no longer manually reviewing every resume. Instead, applicant tracking systems and AI algorithms determine which candidates make it past the first round.
Take this as an example: A major Australian bank has automated the hiring of 2,000 employees annually without a single human interview. No degrees required. No traditional resumes. Just AI-driven assessments, video submissions, and data-driven decision-making. The result is better retention rates and a more diverse workforce.
If you are a corporate professional relying solely on your credentials and experience, you might never even be seen by a recruiter. Instead, you need to understand how AI filters job applications and how to optimize your strategy accordingly.
The Optimism Bias That’s Holding Professionals Back
One of the most common job search mistakes is underestimating how long it takes to land a new role.
Before the pandemic, the average job search for senior professionals took five months. Today, with increased competition and AI-powered selection, it often takes much longer.
Yet, many professionals assume they will land a new job in two months, only to face months of frustration, panic, and last-minute scrambling when reality hits.
The truth is:
The higher your role, the longer the search process takes.
AI and automation mean fewer human eyes on resumes.
A structured, long-term job search plan is no longer optional, it is essential.
To stay ahead, professionals must treat job searching like a strategic project, leveraging AI, optimizing resumes, and networking intentionally.
The Shift to AI-Powered, Video-First Hiring
Another major shift is that video-based hiring is becoming the norm, even for executive roles.
A well-known executive search firm in Australia now requires candidates to submit a three-minute video introduction before being considered for a role. Many experienced professionals resist this change, but video-first hiring is here to stay.
Key hiring trends to be aware of:
AI-powered video interviews analyze speech patterns, tone, and facial expressions.
Many companies use pre-recorded video assessments instead of live interviews.
Recruiters increasingly expect candidates to be comfortable presenting on camera.
If you are hesitant about video-first hiring, now is the time to develop your on-camera confidence. Practicing video pitches and AI-driven mock interviews will give you an edge.
Actionable Strategies for Corporate Professionals
What the Future Holds for Job Searching
By 2030, AI will have reshaped millions of white-collar jobs. Hiring decisions, performance evaluations, and career opportunities will be increasingly AI-driven.
Despite these changes, human connection still matters. The professionals who will thrive are those who:
Leverage AI instead of fearing it.
Emphasize strategic thinking and problem-solving.
Continue building strong professional relationships.
If you are serious about advancing your career, the time to adapt to AI-driven hiring is now.
The job market is not slowing down, it is evolving at breakneck speed. AI is here to stay, video interviews are non-negotiable, and job seekers must adapt or be left behind. The best advice
I can give to corporate professionals in transition is to embrace change. Learn how these new tools work. Be strategic. And most importantly, keep building human relationships in a world increasingly run by machines.
Want more insights on navigating today’s job market? Subscribe to my newsletter for AI-driven job search strategies, career growth insights, and expert coaching advice.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
Since recording this episode, Callings.ai created resources specifically for US Federal workers who have lost – or are about to lose - their jobs. Click here to learn more.
Other resources from RenataBernarde.com :
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