WorkSource virtual job fair - can I join by phone and leave early?

I did one of these WorkSource virtual job fairs back in January. They don't take attendance for the entire time - it's more like a drop-in thing where you can visit different employer "booths" in the virtual space. When you first log in, they record your attendance for your job search activity, but after that it's pretty flexible. I was able to spend about an hour there and got credit for the activity.

these virtual fairs r actually pretty flexible, i called in to 1 last month cuz my internet was down. u just gotta make sure u do the initial check-in part so they record ur attendance for ESD. the phone option isnt great tbh, hard to hear sometimes and u cant see the employers slides but its better than nothing

I work at WorkSource (not ESD directly) and can tell you how these typically run. The first 15-30 minutes is usually an orientation and explanation of how the virtual platform works. Then they open up the employer booths and you can visit whichever ones interest you. For attendance purposes, you need to: 1. Check in at the beginning (first 15 min) 2. Visit at least 3 employer booths 3. Document this activity on your weekly job search log Phone participation is definitely available, but you'll miss the visual elements. I recommend joining by computer for the orientation part if possible, then switching to phone when you have to leave for work.

THE WHOLE ESD SYSTEM IS RIDICULOUS!!! They schedule these things during WORKING HOURS when people with JOBS can't attend!!! How are we supposed to work AND jump through all their hoops??? I missed one of these stupid virtual things because of my job and they disqualified my benefits for two weeks!!

I'm confused about something... if you're working part-time already, are you reporting those hours on your weekly claim? Because ESD can disqualify you if you're working but not reporting it correctly. Just making sure you're not accidentally setting yourself up for an overpayment situation later.

when i did one of these last year they just care that you sign in tbh. but the whole thing was a waste of time anyway. all the employers just tell you to go apply on their website. might as well just apply directly and skip the fair completely lol

To directly answer your question: Yes, you can definitely join by phone, and yes, you can leave early. The phone option works through their Webex system - when you dial in, you'll need to enter the meeting number followed by the # sign. For your job search log, make sure to document: - The exact name of the job fair - The date and time you attended - Names of at least 3 employers you interacted with - Any positions you expressed interest in This detailed documentation is important in case ESD has questions about your job search activities later. Since these virtual job fairs count as multiple job search activities, it's worth making the effort to attend even if only for the first hour.

btw when ur there make sure u talk to the healthcare companies they seemed to have the most actual jobs vs just collecting resumes