Online job boards are becoming ineffective, with only 1/3 of jobs filled through them. The video discusses why this is happening, potential solutions, and recommends alternative job-seeking strategies like networking, career fairs, and utilizing recruiters.

The landscape of job hunting has dramatically changed since the introduction of applicant tracking systems (ATS) and online job boards. What started as a convenient way to manage resumes and job applications has evolved into a complex, AI-driven process that often leaves job seekers feeling frustrated and ghosted.

Let’s break down the current state of the job market and why online job boards are becoming increasingly ineffective:

• There were 7.2 million job openings in March, with 5.4 million being filled.
• Only about 1/3 of jobs are filled through public online job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn.
• Approximately 3% of applicants get an interview, and 48% of those interviewed get hired.
• With 20 million Americans applying for jobs and submitting an average of 50 resumes per month, the odds of landing a job through an online job board are about 0.19% or 1 in 514 resumes.

These statistics paint a grim picture, but they’re skewed by factors like bots and unserious job seekers. Many people apply to jobs they’re not qualified for, especially when it comes to well-known companies. Additionally, some job seekers use bots to mass-submit applications, creating a vicious cycle where bots are rejected by ATS bots.

So, what are the possible solutions to this broken system? There are three main possibilities:

1. Embrace the chaos and make AI bot optimization the primary way people apply for and are selected for jobs. However, this solution has drawbacks, including the population’s lack of tech-savviness and the inherent unfairness of ATS systems.
2. Implement tech regulation to make hiring practices fairer. Unfortunately, given the current political climate and corporate interests, this seems unlikely to happen in the near future.
3. Rehumanize the hiring process by returning to pre-online job board methods. This includes networking events, full-time recruiters, job trials, internship pipeline programs, college career fairs, and utilizing local workforce services.

The third option seems to be the most promising and is already being adopted by many frustrated companies. It’s also the best opportunity for job seekers to land meaningful, relevant, and high-paying employment in their target industry in 2025.

Here are some strategies to take advantage of this shift towards human-centric hiring:

1. Utilize recruiters: There are at least 200,000 people working in talent acquisition across the United States. Find them on LinkedIn, reach out to them, and let them know your intentions. Apply first, then contact them to ensure your application isn’t auto-deleted by ATS.
2. Attend career fairs: For college students and those in trade schools, career fairs are statistically the most viable pathway into the professional workforce. 91% of companies use career fairs to hire entry-level, full-time salaried staff. Prepare by researching companies, bringing one-page resumes, and dressing professionally.
3. Use state workforce services: These services have the best data on available jobs and how to land them in your area. They offer career coaches, resume writers, therapists, vocational rehab, training program scholarships, and are particularly valuable in rural areas.
4. Explore internship pipeline programs: These are effective ways to gain experience and get your foot in the door, especially if you don’t have directly related experience. Most internships are now paid due to legal interpretations of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

When applying for jobs or internships, don’t be discouraged if you don’t meet all the qualifications listed. Job descriptions are often inaccurate and ask for too much. Companies report that the person they hire usually only has 50-70% of what they ask for in a job description.

In conclusion, it’s time to update your job search strategy for 2025. Close that Indeed tab and focus on methods that actually work. By embracing human-centric hiring practices and utilizing the strategies outlined above, you’ll save yourself countless hours of applying into the void and significantly increase your chances of landing a meaningful job in your desired industry.