In this episode, Lisa and Christine discuss:

• Shifting hiring timelines and employer decision-making in today’s job market
• Growing importance of skills-based hiring and micro-internships
• Influence of artificial intelligence on entry-level roles and required skills
• Continued power of networking and accessing the hidden job market

Key Takeaways:

• The average job search now takes three to six months, as companies add more interview rounds and assessments before extending offers.
• Skills-first hiring means candidates should highlight real-world experiences—like micro-internships, portfolios, and certifications—not just degrees.
• AI is reshaping entry-level work, with 78% of hiring managers expecting AI-driven layoffs, but it is also creating new roles in data analysis and AI integration; learners should take AI courses (free or paid) and demonstrate use cases in portfolios.
• Over 70% of jobs are never posted publicly, making networking and referrals through LinkedIn or family connections essential to finding opportunities.

“Show, don’t tell, and proof beats promises.” – Christine Rigby-Hall
About Christine Rigby-Hall: Christine Rigby-Hall is the founder of GradLanding, a career coaching practice that helps college students and early career professionals secure internships and launch into the job market with confidence.
Christine also partners closely with parents, helping them understand the hiring landscape and how to support their student without adding pressure. Her approach blends practical strategies with encouragement, giving young professionals the skills and confidence to stand out in a competitive market.
She holds a Master’s in Counseling from Springfield College and a Coaching Certification from Columbia University.
Episode References:

• Build a standout LinkedIn profile that gets noticed—grab your free LinkedIn Profile Builder at flourishcoachingco.com/LinkedIn

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Christine:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gradlanding/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GradLanding

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/GradLanding/100095337640629/

Website: https://www.gradlanding.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemsnyder & https://www.linkedin.com/company/gradlanding/

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co