Washington ESD unemployment how many jobs per week do I need to apply for?

Thank you! Do online applications count as job contacts? And where exactly do I keep this job search log?

Yes, online applications definitely count. You can use WorkSourceWA to track your job search activities, or keep your own log with employer names, dates, and contact methods.

No, it's definitely 3 job contacts per week. The requirement hasn't changed recently. You might be thinking of a different state or program.

oh ok thanks for clarifying, i was worried i wasnt doing enough lol

What's Claimyr? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for weeks and can never get through.

It's a callback service that helps you reach Washington ESD agents without waiting on hold. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Really saved me hours of frustration.

You can expand your search geographically or look at related positions that use transferable skills. You can also count networking activities like LinkedIn outreach or attending industry events.

Good point about networking. I hadn't thought of counting LinkedIn connections as job contacts.

Just make sure you document everything properly. Washington ESD wants to see that you're making genuine effort to find work, not just going through the motions.

Standby status has different rules. You typically don't need to do job searches if you have a definite recall date within 6 weeks. But if it's been 2 months, Washington ESD might require you to start searching.

Ugh, I better call them to clarify. This is so confusing.

Really? I thought there might be a waiting period while you get oriented to the system.

Nope, it starts right away. I learned that the hard way when I got a warning letter about insufficient job search activities.

I understand the frustration, but the rules are actually pretty clear once you understand them. The 3 job contacts per week requirement has been consistent for years.

Maybe for you but not everyone has time to figure out all this bureaucratic nonsense while trying to find work and pay bills.

Volunteering itself doesn't count as a job contact, but if you're networking with people who might lead to job opportunities, that could count. You'd need to document specific networking activities.

That makes sense. I have met some potential contacts through volunteering.

Is WorkSourceWA required or just recommended?

It's not required but it's free and integrates with Washington ESD systems. Makes record-keeping much easier if you get audited.

You still need to make the effort. This could include contacting employers directly, networking, or expanding your search criteria. Document whatever genuine job search activities you do.

I guess that makes sense. Better to show effort than just skip the requirement.

It's mostly random audits, but they can also audit if something seems off with your claim or if you've been claiming for an extended period. Better to keep good records from the start.

Yeah I've been keeping detailed records just in case. Don't want any surprises.

Generally yes, if they're genuinely different positions. But don't abuse this - Washington ESD wants to see you're making diverse efforts to find work.

Got it. I was thinking about a company that posts multiple openings but I'll make sure they're actually different roles.

Yes, interviews definitely count as job contacts. They're actually one of the best types of contacts you can have since they show active employer interest.

Perfect, I have two interviews lined up next week so that should help with the requirement.

How does that work exactly? Do they just help you get through the phone system?

Yeah, they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Check out their demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ to see how it works.

Correct, it's 3 job contacts per week that you claim benefits. So if you claim every week, you need 3 contacts every week.

Thanks for confirming. I've been doing it right then.

I understand the sentiment, but the requirement is there to ensure active job searching. You can balance quality and quantity by doing thorough applications for good matches and quicker applications for stretch positions.

That's a good way to think about it. I'll try to find that balance.

Job fairs can count, especially if you're submitting applications or having substantive conversations with recruiters. Document which employers you spoke with and what positions you discussed.

Good to know. There's a virtual job fair coming up that I was planning to attend.

That sounds perfect. The key is having detailed records that show genuine job search effort. Your spreadsheet approach should work well for any potential audit.

Great, I'll keep doing that then. Better safe than sorry with Washington ESD.

I mentioned them earlier. Really helped me get through to agents when I needed clarification on the job search requirements. Their website is claimyr.com if you want to check it out.

Thanks, I'll look into it. At this point I'll try anything to avoid spending entire days on hold.

Thank you everyone! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about the job search requirements now.

Glad we could help! Good luck with your job search and unemployment claim.