PA Career Link job search requirements - anyone have success stories?

I've been on both sides of this. As a jobseeker, I got my current job through PA CareerLink, but it took about 25 applications before I got any responses. As someone who's also done hiring, many employers do check those applications, but they get FLOODED with applicants who aren't qualified and are just applying to meet UC requirements. Some tips that helped me: 1. Customize your resume for EACH job - don't just use the same one 2. Write an actual cover letter addressing specific job requirements 3. Follow up directly with the company if possible 4. Don't just rely on CareerLink - use Indeed, LinkedIn, and company websites too The system isn't perfect but it can work if you're strategic about it.

career link is a total waste of time imo. applied to 50+ jobs there last year and got 2 interviews. both were for jobs paying way less than advertised. better off networking or using indeed

I was in your exact situation last month! Applied to like 30 jobs through CareerLink and heard NOTHING back. Was so frustrating. Then I tried calling a few places directly after applying through the system and suddenly got 3 interviews! Turns out some employers don't check the system regularly or their notifications go to spam. Also discovered you can use Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to UC agents quickly if you have questions about what qualifies for job search activities. Saved me hours of busy signals when I needed clarification about whether my networking efforts counted. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 Don't give up on CareerLink completely, but definitely expand your approach!

Im having the SAME ISSUE!!! Applied to 22 jobs thru Career Link and ZERO RESPONSES!!!! So frustrating!!! Do they even review these applications????? Feels like Im just checking boxes to keep my benefits but not actually finding a job. The whole system seems designed to just make us jump through hoops.

career link worked ok for me but only after i figured out the trick. dont just apply to the recent postings - those get hundreds of applications. look for the older job listings that have been up for 30+ days. those employers are desperate and actually respond. got my warehouse job that way after being ignored on all the new listings lol

One more important tip about PA CareerLink that many people miss: You need to upload your most current resume to your profile AND keep your profile information updated. Many employers search the database directly instead of waiting for applications. I know this because my friend works at CareerLink and says most people's profiles are incomplete which makes them invisible to employer searches.

Just to clarify about PA UC requirements: You need to complete 6 work search activities each week, but only 1 of those needs to be a job application. The other 5 can be activities like revising your resume, attending job fairs, networking events, or taking job skills workshops. Many CareerLink offices offer free workshops that count toward your activities. This gives you flexibility while you focus on quality applications rather than quantity. Make sure you're documenting all activities in case of an audit.

I had a similar experience when I was on UC last year - applied to dozens of jobs through CareerLink with minimal response. What finally worked for me was treating it as just one part of my job search strategy rather than relying on it completely. I started using CareerLink for my required applications but put most of my energy into networking and direct company outreach. One thing that helped was joining some local professional groups on Facebook and LinkedIn where people actually share job leads. Also, many companies post on their own websites before they get to CareerLink, so I started checking company career pages directly for places I wanted to work. The key is remembering that CareerLink is there to help you meet your UC requirements, but your real job search happens everywhere else. Don't let the frustration with the system discourage you - it sounds like you're doing everything right, just need to diversify your approach!