Washington ESD unemployment periods on job applications - how to explain gaps?

That's what I was thinking too. Did you ever have employers ask follow-up questions about the unemployment period?

Sometimes they ask why I left my previous job, but I just explain it was a layoff and I've been following Washington ESD job search requirements. Never had it be a dealbreaker.

That's smart phrasing. You could also mention any skills training or certifications you did during unemployment if applicable.

I did take a few online courses during my unemployment. Good point about mentioning those.

Yes! I've been trying to call Washington ESD for over a month about my claim status. Found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to an agent in like 20 minutes. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Employers want to see consistency and understand any gaps. It's not necessarily about judging unemployment, but about getting a complete picture of your work history.

i guess but it still feels invasive. some of us had to deal with covid layoffs and the whole washington esd mess on top of it

That's a great idea! I did help my neighbor with his small business bookkeeping a few times. Would that count?

Absolutely! Even informal work experience shows initiative and keeps your skills sharp.

Just make sure you reported any income to Washington ESD if you were still claiming benefits.

I like that wording! Shows you were taking the job search seriously.

yeah that sounds way better than just 'unemployed'. shows you were doing what you were supposed to be doing

That's reassuring to hear from someone in HR. I've been worried it would automatically disqualify me.

Not at all. We're more concerned about honesty and what you bring to the role than employment gaps, especially in this economy.

This is so helpful. I've been stressed about my 10-month gap but maybe I'm overthinking it.

Definitely wouldn't lie about it. Just want to present it in the best way possible.

exactly. honesty is always the best policy on job applications

You actually showed them your job search log? That's smart - proves you were actively looking.

Yeah, I brought printouts of my applications and networking activities. Really helped demonstrate I wasn't just sitting idle.

That's brilliant! I never thought of using my job search documentation as a positive selling point.

Good point about consistency. I'll pick one phrase and stick with it across all applications.

Keep it factual and brief. 'Position was eliminated due to company restructuring' or similar. Don't go into emotional details.

Thanks, that's helpful. I tend to over-explain when I'm nervous.

I had the same problem! Practice your elevator pitch about the layoff until it sounds natural and matter-of-fact.

That's a good idea. I haven't tried working with staffing agencies yet but maybe I should.

Definitely worth it, especially if you're open to temp-to-perm positions. They can help bridge the gap.

Congratulations! That gives me hope. Did any employers ask detailed questions about the unemployment period?

A few asked about it during interviews but nothing judgmental. Most were more interested in my skills and experience than the gap.

That's encouraging to hear. I've been worried about being out of work for so long.

Try Claimyr if you really need to talk to someone. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked. Got through to an agent in about 15 minutes instead of waiting hours.

Good point. I haven't looked at government positions yet but I should probably consider them.

Definitely worth exploring. Some agencies are very understanding about unemployment gaps, especially for layoffs.

Thanks everyone for all the advice! I feel much more confident about handling this on applications now.

Good luck with your job search! You've got this.