What if your degree didn't matter and your resume wasn't the most important part of your job application? In this episode, Julia Toothacre sits down with Katie Rakusin, Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at Merit America, to unpack what competency-based hiring really looks like and why it's changing how professionals get hired. Katie shares her journey from special education teacher to recruiting leader and explains why focusing on skills over pedigree creates more equitable and effective hiring processes. We cover the big questions job seekers are asking right now: Do you really need a cover letter? Can AI hurt your application? What does the ATS actually do (and not do)? Katie brings real-world clarity to these hot topics, with insights that help you stand out without overthinking every application. You'll also learn how to navigate job interviews, craft better resumes, and avoid one simple application mistake that could get you disqualified instantly, without even knowing it. If you've ever wondered how to get noticed in a skills-first hiring process or how to make sure your voice doesn't get lost in the age of AI, this episode is a must-listen. Explore all the Control Your Career episodes: https://ridethetidecollective.com/podcast/ Connect with Julia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliakrussell/  Episode Blog Post: https://ridethetidecollective.com/2025/06/04/season11episode7/ Learn more about the Career Advancement Intensive: https://ridethetidecollective.com/coaching/intensive/

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