What not to say in Washington ESD unemployment interview - need advice

Should I have documentation ready? I'm worried they'll ask for specific dates and I'll get flustered.

Yes, definitely have your termination letter, pay stubs, and any written communications with your employer organized before the call.

This is really helpful. I keep second-guessing myself about what happened.

Also avoid saying things like 'I quit' even if you resigned. Use 'I separated from employment' and explain the circumstances that led to it.

How long did your interview take? I'm worried it will go on for hours.

Mine was about 45 minutes. They're thorough but not trying to trick you. Just be honest and factual.

How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call for days with no luck.

It basically handles the calling and waiting for you, then connects you when an agent picks up. Saved me hours of redials.

That's going to be hard. My supervisor was really unreasonable.

I get it, but focus on actions and policies, not personalities. Say 'I was written up for X' not 'my boss was out to get me.

This is so important. I made this mistake and talked myself into a corner.

What happened? Did it affect your eligibility?

I mentioned other workplace issues that weren't related to my termination and it just confused things. Took weeks to sort out.

Good point. I was wondering if they'd ask about that.

Right, that's handled through your weekly claims. The interview is just about whether you're eligible based on how your job ended.

What if I genuinely didn't know about a policy?

Then say that - 'I was not aware of this policy' or 'I was not trained on this procedure.' That's different from admitting wrongdoing.

I never thought about word choice mattering that much.

It definitely does. Professional language helps your case sound more legitimate.

Should I review my application before the interview?

Absolutely. Print it out if you can and have it with you during the call for reference.

What if I honestly can't remember exact details about something?

Then say 'I don't recall the exact details' or 'approximately' - being uncertain is better than being wrong.

Even if it was just occasional freelance work?

If it's not related to why you left your job, don't bring it up. That's a separate issue for your weekly claims.

Did you end up doing the interview without getting your questions answered?

Yeah, and it was way more stressful than it needed to be. At least now I know for next time.

I do feel guilty about it though. Is that normal?

Totally normal but don't let that show in the interview. You paid into this system and deserve fair consideration.

What if the situation really was unfair though?

Then describe the specific actions that were unfair without using that word. Let them draw their own conclusions.

Good point. My job has a lot of specialized procedures.

Exactly. They need to understand the context to make a fair decision about your case.

Thank you everyone. This has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more prepared now.

Good luck with your interview! Remember, they're just trying to get the facts to make the right decision.

What's the best way to correct something you said wrong?

Just say 'I need to correct something I said earlier' and then give the accurate information. They appreciate honesty.

Yeah, it's been a lifesaver for me. Way better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

I'm definitely going to check out that video demo. This whole process is so frustrating.

How long do you have to appeal if needed?

You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal with Washington ESD.