It’s a question we hear often—from undergraduates, graduates, and returning professional students alike.
At the 2025 University of Pittsburgh School of Business Career Conference, we invited senior Human Resource and talent executives from our corporate network to share insights with Pitt students across all levels—undergraduate, graduate, and professional MBAs. Their message? The hiring landscape has changed.
“Recruiting went back to the early 1990s. Thanks to AI.”
Wait—what does that mean?
With AI tools, anyone can tailor their resume to beat an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Matching a job description’s keywords? That takes seconds now. One executive shared, “I receive 7,000 applicants for a single open role.”
And here’s the kicker: “Too many applicants think success means applying to 100 jobs a day.”
Even if 90 percent of those 7,000 applicants are a match, that’s still 6,300 resumes to sift through. You’re the proverbial needle in a haystack. To stand out, use the old-fashioned technique from the 90s: networking. Making connections is a more effective way to beat an ATS. If someone personally recommends you for a role, that can help your resume get to the top of the pile.
Consider AI Your Job Search Assistant
Jennifer O’Toole, associate director of career development at the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business, says you should “think of it as a smart assistant that helps you prepare strategically and efficiently.” She recommends using AI in these five ways:
- Research companies and roles: Summarize a company’s culture, recent news, or key competitors before an interview.
- Refine your materials: Review your resume for clarity, impact, and alignment with a job description.
- Interview prep: Simulate common interview questions and behavioral scenarios.
- Practice your elevator pitch: You can try different versions, receive feedback on clarity and tone, and tailor your message to specific audiences. Using AI can build confidence before you give your pitch to real people.
- Outreach messages: Develop professional and personalized LinkedIn posts and emails that build your brand.
When you are on LinkedIn, however, one executive gave this word of caution: “Don’t reach out on LinkedIn and ask, ‘Do you have a job for me?’ It’s lazy. I hate this.”
How do you stand out?
The HR panel offers this advice:
- Be a hard worker.
- Hold yourself accountable.
- Be easy to work with—open, collaborative, and respectful.
At the University of Pittsburgh School of Business, we’re committed to listening to industry leaders—not just to understand their talent needs, but to shape the career development of our students. Because when students build real connections with professionals, they accelerate their growth and expand their opportunities.
Do you have a question for us to ask of our corporate network? Email partners@business.pitt.edu.