a16z's David Booth and Dhruv Gupta break down the launch of Cosign Awards and reveal how agent-to-agent negotiation protocols like MCP will replace legacy recruiting networks. They detail how autonomous agents across platforms like Muse and Instinct will handle first-round hiring screeners and map hidden talent graphs. Check out our sponsor Lovable: https://lovable.dev. Turn ideas into software people love.

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Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:45) Launching The Cosign Awards

(02:09) Breaking Startup Information Silos

(04:00) Nominees Across Categories

(06:04) Increasing Surface Area For Luck

(09:34) Replacing Traditional Hiring Paths

(18:28) Connecting AI Agents Through MCP

(23:46) What Comes Next For Cosign

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Note: This podcast is not investment, legal, or tax advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. Hosts and guests may hold positions in the companies and securities discussed; do your own research before acting on anything you hear.

AI Agents Will Negotiate Hiring Directly | a16z

MTS

AI Agents Will Negotiate Hiring Directly | a16z