Washington ESD weekly claims during very low unemployment - fewer job options?

That makes sense actually. I guess I was thinking low unemployment meant good jobs everywhere but you're right, it's probably mostly retail and restaurant work driving those numbers.

Exactly this. I'm in IT and even though unemployment is low, the tech job market is still really competitive. Just keep documenting your job search activities properly for Washington ESD.

Do you know if Washington ESD actually checks the quality of jobs you apply to? I don't want to waste time on applications that won't count toward my requirements.

They can request your job search records during an audit, so keep good documentation. They mainly care that you're making legitimate efforts, not that every job is your dream position.

Interesting, I've never heard of that service. Did they charge a lot for it?

It was worth it to get actual answers instead of guessing about Washington ESD requirements. Way better than spending all day trying to call and getting nowhere.

I'm always skeptical of third-party services but if it actually works to reach Washington ESD agents, that could be helpful. The phone system is absolutely terrible.

I understand the frustration, but remember that Washington ESD's requirements are designed to show you're actively seeking work. Even if the jobs aren't ideal, applying demonstrates your effort to return to employment.

i know i know, just venting. it's hard when people act like finding a job should be easy right now when it really isn't

Good point about underemployment. I know plenty of people working part-time jobs who want full-time work but can't find it.

Yeah that explains why I'm seeing so many temp agency postings. Those probably count toward the employment numbers but they're not really solving anyone's problems.

Really? I didn't know networking events counted. That's actually really helpful since most of the jobs in marketing come through connections anyway.

Yep, as long as you document them properly. Washington ESD recognizes that job searching involves more than just submitting applications online.

That's an interesting perspective I hadn't considered. So even though there might be jobs available, the hiring process becomes more competitive?

Exactly. Plus companies might be less willing to train people or take chances on candidates who don't perfectly match their criteria.

They can audit work search activities, especially if there are questions about your claim. Keep detailed records of every application, including job posting details and where you found them.

Thanks, I've been keeping a spreadsheet but wasn't sure how detailed it needed to be. Better to be overprepared I guess.

I've been thinking about that but wasn't sure if Washington ESD would be okay with me applying to jobs outside the state. Do you know if that creates any issues with benefits?

As long as you're available for work and can reasonably accept a position if offered, geographic location shouldn't matter for your job search requirements.

While I understand the frustration, Washington ESD's role is to provide temporary income support while you search for work. The job search requirements are meant to facilitate your return to employment.

I get that, but the system should acknowledge that not all jobs are created equal. Making people apply to positions they're overqualified for doesn't help anyone.

I registered but haven't really explored all their services. Do they have anything specifically for marketing professionals?

They have industry-specific resources and sometimes host job fairs or workshops that could be valuable for networking and skill development.

Right?? I keep seeing jobs listed as entry level that require 3-5 years experience. How is that entry level?

That's been an issue for years unfortunately. Companies use 'entry level' to justify lower wages even when they want experienced candidates.

How does that work exactly? Do they just call for you or do they actually talk to Washington ESD on your behalf?

They get you connected to an actual Washington ESD agent, then you take over the call. So you're still talking directly to the state, just without all the hassle of getting through their phone system.

That actually sounds really useful. I've wasted so many hours trying to get through to Washington ESD only to get disconnected or put on endless hold.

I actually do some volunteer marketing work for a local nonprofit. I had no idea that might count toward my requirements. I should definitely ask about that.

Yeah, it's not widely known but professional volunteer work that enhances your employability can qualify. Just make sure to document it properly.

Interesting point about timing. Have you noticed any patterns with which days are better for new job postings?

Monday through Wednesday seem to be when most new postings go up. Friday applications often get buried over the weekend.

That's a good idea. There are several marketing-focused staffing agencies in the area that I haven't contacted yet.

Staffing agencies can be hit or miss, but at least the meetings count toward your work search documentation and sometimes they have unadvertised positions.

Thanks, that's reassuring to hear. Sometimes I do wonder if I'm doing something wrong when everyone talks about how easy it should be to find work right now.

You're definitely not doing anything wrong. The job market is just more complex than simple unemployment statistics suggest.

Good point about following up. I've been pretty passive after submitting applications. Should I be tracking responses and non-responses too?

Yes, keep notes on any responses you get, interviews scheduled, rejections received, etc. It shows Washington ESD that you're actively engaged in the job search process.

Definitely not alone! This discussion has given me a lot of ideas for expanding my job search approach while still meeting all the Washington ESD requirements.

Same here. Going to try some of these networking and volunteer work suggestions along with better documentation of my search activities.