How AI, Preparation, and Networking Are Shaping Today’s Job Search
Insights from Recruiter Catherine Hamilton, Robert Half
At our recent recruiter panel, we asked hiring professionals to share what they are seeing in today’s job market and how students can stand out in an increasingly competitive and technology driven hiring landscape.
Catherine Hamilton, VP and Director of Permanent Placement at Robert Half, shared thoughtful insights ahead of the event that reinforce an important message for students, while technology is changing recruiting, the human element still matters most.
Here are her key takeaways and what they mean for you.
AI in Hiring, Helpful Tool, Not the Decision Maker
Artificial intelligence is now a regular part of many hiring processes, but not in the way students often assume.
According to Catherine, AI is primarily used to:
- Screen resumes
- Filter for baseline qualifications
- Increase efficiency and speed
It helps recruiters quickly identify who meets the minimum requirements, but it does not make final decisions.
Human recruiters still evaluate:
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal strengths
- Culture and team fit
- Overall potential
Recruiting agencies like Robert Half add an additional human layer by reviewing and vetting candidates before presenting them to employers.
What this means for students:
Optimizing your resume for keywords can help you get past the first screen, but relationships, preparation, and your story are what actually earn interviews and offers.
How to Stand Out in a Competitive Applicant Pool
When asked what differentiates strong candidates, Catherine emphasized preparation and intentionality.
Students who stand out typically:
- Tailor each resume to the specific job description
- Use relevant keywords and skills from the posting
- Avoid sending generic applications
- Practice interviews and refine their pitch
- Communicate their experience clearly and confidently
A customized application signals genuine interest and professionalism, which recruiters notice immediately.
Tip: Treat every application like it matters, because it does.
Networking Still Opens the Most Doors
One theme that came up repeatedly, networking remains one of the most effective job search strategies.
Catherine encourages students to:
- Use their existing network, including friends, classmates, professors, and former colleagues
- Build new connections intentionally, both online and in person
- Keep relationships warm over time, not just when looking for a job
Often, opportunities come from referrals and conversations rather than online applications alone.
Remember: Many resumes look similar. Relationships help you stand out.
Building Experience Without “Perfect” Experience
For students and early career professionals who feel they lack direct industry experience, Catherine recommends broadening how you define relevant experience.
Highlight:
- Internships
- Part time jobs
- Campus leadership
- Class projects
- Side projects or freelance work
Employers value initiative, curiosity, and follow through just as much as formal titles.
She also advises students not to wait for the “perfect” first job. Instead, cast a wide net and focus on roles that build skills and momentum. Many stepping stone opportunities lead to unexpected and rewarding career paths.
The Big Picture
Across all of Catherine’s insights, a few consistent themes emerged:
- Technology supports hiring, but people make decisions
- Preparation and customization matter
- Networking creates access
- Flexibility early in your career leads to more opportunities
If you take away one thing, let it be this, your job search is not just about submitting applications. It is about building relationships, telling your story well, and showing up prepared.
The CPD team is here to help you practice interviews, tailor resumes, and build strategies that work. Schedule an appointment with us anytime to get started.
