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March 16th, 2026

Tackling the Modern Job Hunt: Digital Skills, AI, and the Power of Networking

  1. Tackling the Modern Job Hunt: Digital Skills, AI, and the Power of Networking Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson 35:25

If you’re job searching, making a career pivot, or just want some real advice from people who get it, this episode has you covered.

Welcome, Jami Phillips from New Directions Career Center—who’s a pro at helping people tackle career changes and job hunts, no matter what curveballs the Economy throws our way.

Things definitely aren’t the same as they were five years ago, especially with Technology and Artificial Intelligence shaking up how we find jobs and how employers evaluate candidates. Jami shares what’s working now, what challenges are new (and old), and how New Directions Career Center is stepping up to support job seekers—especially folks over 55 and anyone feeling totally lost in the modern job search process.

There’s talk about boosting your confidence, handling online applications and those pesky resume filters, prepping for virtual interviews, and why networking (especially on LinkedIn) still matters.

Stick around for practical tips, encouragement, and a reminder that you’re not alone—no matter how wild the job market seems!

If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!

Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone on the job search:

  • Holistic & Individualized Support Matters: Jami emphasizes that job search isn’t just about resumes—the Center offers a holistic approach, helping individuals rebuild confidence and recognize their value, especially those facing career transitions.
  • Embrace Technology & AI: Technology is shifting the job search process. From online applications to AI resume screenings, adapting and learning how to leverage these tools—not fear them—is essential for success.
  • Networking is Key (and Looks Different Now): Traditional networking has evolved. Building a strong LinkedIn presence and using digital connections for both research and introductions is increasingly important, and often expected by employers.

Moments

06:22 “Overcoming Job Search Challenges”

10:21 “Adapting to Virtual Interviews”

12:59 Practice Builds Interview Confidence

15:10 “Networking Through Research Essentials”

18:15 “Mastering AI for Job Applications”

23:37 “Do You Need Interview Coaching?”

25:40 “Choosing the Right Career Coach”

30:06 Building Workforce Connections in Ohio

31:45 “Proactive Hiring Strategies Needed”

We would Love to hear from you.

Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.

Email us at [email protected].

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Please review our podcast on Google!

And of course, everything can be found on our website, Looking Forward Our Way.

Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Copyright 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

Mentioned in this episode:

Listener Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by the Experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised.

Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca Looking Forward Our Way Podcast

The Looking Forward Our Way Podcast is co-hosted by Dr. Carol Ventresca, a recently retired Encore Careerist, who is expanding her horizons through a variety of opportunities. And Brett Johnson, owner of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants. He works with entrepreneurs, businesses, brands, and non-profits to plan, launch, produce, and implement podcasts into their marketing strategies. And he's affectionately known to his podcast clients as "My Podcast Guy."

Carol and Brett have been working together co-hosting this podcast, now in its "encore career," since 2017.