Washington ESD claim - how to overcome unemployment due to ai automation affecting my job

Did you have any trouble with your weekly claims? I'm worried they'll say I'm not looking hard enough if I can't find jobs in my field.

No issues with weekly claims as long as you're applying to jobs and documenting it properly. Just cast a wider net than your old field.

I hadn't thought about WorkSource. Do they help pay for training while you're on unemployment?

Yes, they have several programs that can cover tuition and even provide additional support. You should contact your local WorkSource office ASAP.

WorkSource saved my career when manufacturing automation hit my plant. They paid for my IT certification and I found work in 6 months.

Never heard of that service. How much does it cost?

I don't remember the exact price but it was worth it to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD. Way better than being on hold for hours.

Claimyr sounds sketchy to me. Why can't you just call Washington ESD directly?

You can try calling directly but good luck getting through. I tried for 3 weeks before using Claimyr. Sometimes you need help navigating the system.

That's smart. I've been too focused on finding another data entry job when maybe I should look at other options.

Exactly. Think about the underlying skills you have - attention to detail, working with databases, meeting deadlines. Those transfer to lots of jobs.

I get the frustration but complaining won't help. We have to adapt or get left behind.

Easy to say when it's not your job getting taken by a robot.

This is exactly why retraining programs exist. Technology changes, jobs change. The key is staying ahead of it.

Good advice. I was overthinking the explanation part. I'll just focus on hitting the application requirements.

Wait, I thought it was 2 job contacts per week? When did it change to 3?

It's 3 for most people unless you're in a specialized field. Check your specific requirements on the Washington ESD website.

Content writing too? Wow, I thought that would be safer than data entry. How are you handling the job search?

Pivoting to content strategy and AI prompt engineering. If you can't beat them, join them I guess.

Smart approach. Learning to work WITH AI instead of being replaced BY it.

I'll look into TAA. Never heard of it but extended benefits would be huge right now.

Not everyone qualifies but it's worth checking. The application process can be complicated so you might need help navigating it.

That's the second mention of Claimyr. Might be worth trying if I need to discuss my specific situation with Washington ESD.

Yeah I used them too when I couldn't get through about my job search requirements. Super helpful.

True. I'm trying to see this as an opportunity to learn new skills, not just a setback.

Exactly the right mindset. This is forcing a lot of us to level up our skills.

Good point. I have the company memo about the AI implementation. Should I keep that as backup?

Absolutely. Keep any documentation about the automation/elimination of your position.

Coding always seemed intimidating but maybe it's time to try. Do any of these programs work with Washington ESD benefits?

Many do. Some are even approved for unemployment training extensions. Worth researching the approved training provider list.

I did a data bootcamp while on unemployment. Washington ESD approved it and I got extra benefits during training. Game changer.

You're right. I got too comfortable in my role and didn't see this coming.

None of us saw it coming this fast. Even tech experts are surprised by the pace of change.

That's the third recommendation for Claimyr. Seems like a lot of people have had success with it.

Wish I'd known about that when I was trying to reach them about my training program approval.

That's helpful. My data entry job was pretty routine, so I should look for something that requires more critical thinking.

Exactly. Think project coordination, quality control, customer relations - things that need human insight.

Thanks for the reassurance. I was worried they'd penalize me for the job market challenges in my field.

Just be honest about your efforts and keep good records. They're more understanding than people think.

Healthcare admin is interesting. My attention to detail from data entry would probably transfer well.

Definitely. Plus healthcare is always hiring and values accuracy skills.

True. I'm trying to see this as a forced career upgrade opportunity.

That's exactly the right way to think about it. Many people end up in better careers after AI displacement if they use the time wisely.

I definitely need to research the training extensions. That could make all the difference in having time to properly retrain.

The training benefits are underutilized. Most people don't know they exist but they're incredibly valuable for career transitions.

Will do! This thread has given me so many good ideas. Thanks everyone for the support and practical advice.