Washington ESD job search requirements - how many job searches needed weekly?

Thank you! So 3 is the magic number. Do I need to submit proof of these searches with my weekly claim or just keep records?

Just keep detailed records for now. Washington ESD can audit your claim at any time and ask for proof, so document everything - employer names, dates, job titles, how you applied, etc.

It used to be 5 during the pandemic but they reduced it back to 3 in 2023. Your friend might be thinking of the old requirements or maybe she was in a different program.

Oh that makes sense! Thanks for clarifying. I was worried I wasn't doing enough searches.

That's really helpful about networking counting! I work in a niche industry too so this gives me more options.

Wait, so Claimyr actually works? I've been trying to get through to ESD for weeks about my job search requirements. How much does it cost?

It definitely works - saved me so much time and frustration. I'd rather not discuss costs publicly but it was worth it to finally get my questions answered properly.

Phone inquiries do count as valid job search activities according to current Washington ESD guidelines, as long as you document them properly with employer name, contact person, date, and follow-up actions.

Maybe the rules changed but they disqualified my friend just 3 months ago for exactly this! The system is inconsistent and they change the rules whenever they feel like it.

Does updating LinkedIn count as one of the 3 activities?

Yes, updating professional profiles like LinkedIn counts as a job search activity, but you shouldn't use it as your only activity type. Mix it up with actual applications and networking.

This is super helpful! I've been overthinking this whole process.

You don't have to limit yourself to just applications. Try networking events, informational interviews, or even reaching out to companies that aren't actively hiring but might be interested in your skills.

yeah i guess.. just feels like busy work sometimes when the jobs arent even in my field

You should start documenting immediately and try to reconstruct what you can remember from previous weeks. If ESD audits you, explain that you weren't informed of the requirement and show your good faith effort to comply going forward.

The same thing happened to me! I was so stressed about it but Washington ESD was understanding when I explained the situation. Just start tracking everything now and you should be fine.

Thank you both! I feel much better now. Starting my documentation spreadsheet today.

Great idea about including URLs! I never thought of that but it would definitely help with documentation.

I use a notebook but spreadsheet sounds more organized. Might switch to that method.

That would typically count as 1 job search activity for the job fair attendance. However, if you submit applications to specific employers you met there, each application could count as an additional activity.

That makes sense. So the fair itself is one activity, plus any follow-up applications are separate activities.

I had the same problem until someone here mentioned Claimyr. Used their service last week and got connected to an ESD agent in under 10 minutes. Worth checking out their demo video to see how it works.

I'll look into that, thanks! Getting so frustrated with not being able to reach anyone for simple questions.

That's great that you're being so proactive! Hopefully something comes through soon.

Same here - doing way more than required because I want to get back to work ASAP. The requirement seems pretty reasonable honestly.

Perfect format! Mind if I copy this for my own tracking?

Go for it! The more organized we all are, the better.

Yes, career workshops and training activities count as valid job search activities. The resume workshop would definitely qualify.

awesome thanks! that plus 2 applications should cover my week

A well-organized notebook is perfectly acceptable. As long as you have clear dates, employer names, and activity details, the format doesn't matter. Digital is just easier to search through later.

Thanks! I'll stick with my notebook then since I have everything organized chronologically.

That's really helpful! I belong to a professional association but hadn't thought about their networking events counting.

LinkedIn outreach is smart - way more personal than just applying through job boards.

Diversifying definitely helps both with meeting requirements and actually finding opportunities. Job boards are just one piece of the puzzle.

You're right. Time to get more creative with my search strategy.

I saw that mentioned earlier too. Might be worth trying since I have some questions about my specific situation.

Good to see multiple people confirming it works. I'll keep it in mind if I need to reach ESD.

Agreed! So much better than trying to decode the official ESD website.

This is exactly why I love this forum - real people helping each other navigate the system.

Good point about standby status. I'm in regular unemployment so the 3 activities per week applies to me.

Yeah, there are definitely special circumstances that can affect requirements. Always better to verify your specific situation.