7 On Your Side: New year, new job? Expert tips to get hired in 2026 and how AI can help

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- It's a new year, which means a chance for a new start. For some people, that could mean a new job.

How can you combat a tough hiring climate to land a new position? 7 On Your Side has tips from the experts.

As some positions are being replaced by artificial intelligence and the unemployment rate heads in the wrong direction, the news for job seekers can seem discouraging.

Experts say the new year means a new budget for many companies, and that can lead to more hiring.

"Certainly, things are picking up in the energy sector because there's all talk about how are we going to power all these data center to keep the AI work running," explained Dawn Fay, an operational president at Robert Half, a global talent solutions firm.

AI can also be a useful tool to help customize your resume.

"You might just want to tweak it to highlight your skills and the results that you've had from the work that you've done that can be really particular to that role that you are applying to," said Fay.

Here are some other tips:

• Email the hiring manager directly.

• Consider contract or temporary work.

• Take a class to develop new skills

Experts also say to be flexible and be prepared to expand your search. The jobs are out there, but it's just more competitive.