Apparently that's one thing that hasn't changed. Finding a job is still more about WHO you know (or can get to know) than about WHAT you know. That's why something like LinkedIn can be very valuable, as job seekers can use it to potentially get an inside track to connect with hiring managers - or someone who knows someone who knows someone... The higher the position in terms of pay and responsibility, the more true this becomes. [Kudos to your son, Lee/AR, for having the initiative to connect with someone at a gas station!]
Anymore, I think resumes are nearly always screened by computer. That means it's critical to have various versions of a resume, to even rework them for each application to include appropriate key words. I've heard that it's a good idea to actually use some of the same verbiage included in job descriptions (if applying for a specific opening). I've also heard, though, that job postings are many times just a formality so a company can 'prove' impartiality, even though they might already have a candidate in mind - even pretty much confirmed - for a position.
I imagine it's a pretty frustrating process, so my heart goes out to anyone doing a job search these days. But some folks ARE still finding good jobs out there! For someone with a specific expertise or skill that might be in demand, it may be worth it to connect with an industry-specific head hunter. Also always better to find a job while you're still working somewhere else.
I have no idea how this all applies to our field these days, but it's reminding me of what it was like back after the 'mortgage meltdown', when title/escrow companies and lenders were laying off people and closing offices, and when it comes to lenders, I think we've already seen a lot of that happen. 
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