Exhausted all job options for ESD's 3 weekly job search requirement - what now?

I totally understand your frustration. The job search requirements can feel impossible when you've exhausted all relevant options. Here are some legitimate activities that count toward your 3 weekly requirements that might help: 1. Attend WorkSource workshops (virtual or in-person) - these definitely count 2. Set up informational interviews with companies you're interested in (these count!) 3. Revise your resume and have it reviewed by WorkSource (counts as an activity) 4. Take relevant online courses to expand your skills (document properly) 5. Network with industry professionals on LinkedIn (document who/when/what was discussed) The key is proper documentation. ESD can audit your job search logs anytime within a year, so make sure you're recording all details correctly. I went through something similar in the biotech field last year and managed to keep my benefits while expanding my search methods.

just apply 4 jobs u know u wont get lol. thats what i did when i ran out. ESD doesnt care if ur qualified just that ur applying. also try indeed remote jobs, can find 100s of those u can apply 2 even if they dont hire washington ppl

The system is RIDICULOUS!!! I went through the exact same thing last year. Burned through all possible job options in my field (accounting) and ended up having to do pointless WorkSource workshops just to keep my benefits. ESD is completely disconnected from reality - they think jobs just magically appear every week no matter your industry or location. When I called to ask about this, I got hung up on TWICE and then waited on hold for 3 hours only to be told to "expand my search area" when I literally had already applied to every job within 100 miles!!! This whole system is designed to make people give up on benefits they EARNED!!!

Try using Claimyr to get through to an ESD agent faster - saved me hours of waiting. I was in a similar situation (exhausted all local jobs in my field) and needed to ask about alternative job search activities. Used claimyr.com and got a callback from ESD in about 20 minutes instead of waiting for hours. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent I spoke with confirmed that WorkSource workshops definitely count, and they also told me about some industry-specific hiring events I didn't know about. Worth the time saved instead of calling directly and getting disconnected multiple times.

It worked for me last month! I was surprised too. They don't actually cut the line or anything - they just keep redialing for you and connect you when they get through. Saved me from having to sit with my phone on speaker for hours.

I've been a career counselor helping people navigate unemployment, and this is actually a common situation in specialized fields. Here's what I recommend based on official ESD guidelines: 1. Job search activities don't have to be just applications. Creating and posting profiles on industry-specific job boards counts as one activity per week. 2. Contact your previous employers to check for any new openings (document the contact). 3. Register with staffing agencies that specialize in your field - each registration counts as an activity. 4. Attend job fairs, either virtual or in-person - these count as multiple activities if you speak with multiple employers. 5. Take relevant skills assessment tests through WorkSource. 6. Join professional organizations in your field and attend their networking events. Remember that ESD requires you to look for "suitable work" - which means work you're qualified for at a comparable wage to your previous employment. You're not required to completely change industries or take substantial pay cuts. Documentation is crucial - dates, contact information, and detailed descriptions of each activity. If you're audited, clear records will protect your benefits.

I applied for jobs 80 miles away even though I knew I wouldn't take them if offered because the commute would be insane. Still counts for the job search requirement though! Also started putting my resume on every possible job site which counts as an activity for each one. Its all about ticking their boxes untill something comes along

It might be worth scheduling a one-on-one appointment with a WorkSource specialist to develop a personalized job search plan. When I hit this same wall (software developer, very specific skills), they helped me create an approved job search plan that included activities beyond just applications, like taking specific online courses that enhanced my skills and attending industry meetups. This plan was officially documented in my ESD file, which gave me peace of mind that my alternative activities would satisfy the requirements. They can also help you identify transferable skills that might open up adjacent industries where your experience is valuable. One thing to note: if you're truly in an area with limited job opportunities in your field, you might qualify for "Commissioner Approved Training" which allows you to train for a new career while still receiving benefits, without the job search requirement. Worth asking about if your industry isn't bouncing back locally.

this happened to me to. i just started applying for jobs in portland even tho i live in vancouver. never would have taken them but who cares ESD just wants to see the numbers

Just to clarify some of the advice here: while expanding your search area is reasonable, be careful about applying for jobs you have absolutely no intention of accepting. If you're offered a position and refuse it without good cause, ESD can disqualify you for benefits. "Good cause" typically means the job is unsuitable for your skills/experience, pays substantially less than your previous work, or would require an unreasonable commute. What constitutes an "unreasonable commute" varies, but generally anything over 1 hour each way might qualify - though ESD evaluates this case-by-case. If you're applying for remote positions or jobs in other cities with the genuine willingness to relocate if offered, that's completely legitimate. I'd suggest focusing on quality rather than quantity in your job search activities. Three meaningful activities each week that actually advance your employment prospects are better than scrambling to hit the number with activities that won't lead anywhere.