Unemployment benefits require you to look for work each week, and the search is also the route back into a role that fits your skills. Step back into the workforce by following good advice. Read our four tips for job searching while on unemployment.
Don’t Stick to One Job Search Method
There are many ways to find a job, so don’t limit your search to one platform or method. Branch out and allocate your time toward various resources. For example, use America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) job search database to find opportunities.
Visit your local community center, job center, and city hall to find opportunities. Reach out to family and friends to gain leads on jobs as well. The more you branch out, the more employment prospects you encounter.
Explore Multiple Job Platforms
Begin by searching reputable online job boards, company career pages, government employment websites, and professional networking platforms. Some employers post openings on their own websites before advertising elsewhere. Regularly checking these sources ensures you don’t miss valuable opportunities.
State workforce agencies also provide helpful resources for individuals seeking employment. For example, the California Employment Development Department (EDD) offers job search assistance, career resources, and workforce programs designed to support unemployed workers through their transition back into the workforce.
Use Government Career Resources
Government employment programs often provide more than job listings. They may include resume assistance, career counseling, skills assessments, interview preparation, and training opportunities.
If you’re receiving unemployment benefits, reviewing the guidance available through the EDD‘s Return to Work resources can help you stay informed about recommended work-search activities while identifying additional employment opportunities that align with your experience.
This can include:
Creating a CalJOBS account and uploading your resume.
Using services from America’s Job Center of California.
Creating profiles on job-search websites.
Registering with your union hiring office and meeting their job placement rules.
Watching videos about job searching, like how to write a cover letter or improve your interview skills.
Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration supports several resources to assist job seekers with finding employment and access to training.
- Visit CareerOneStop as your first source for career exploration, training, job search, local help and resources. Find and contact your local American Job Center to talk with a counselor and learn what resources are available to help in your search.
- Get help figuring out what career is best for you to pursue with the My Next Move tool.
- Find training to improve your skills.
- Explore apprenticeships that will pay you an income while you participate in training that leads to an industry recognized certificate of completion.
- Check out tailored employment resources for veterans, separating service members and their spouses to obtain meaningful career and employment resources.
- Young adults 16 to 24 years of age may qualify for Job Corps, the nation’s largest free, residential career training and education program.
- Do you need to apply for unemployment benefits? Each state administers their own Unemployment Insurance program.
Search for jobs
- Attend job fairs.
- Browse online job banks.
- Attend support groups and job clubs in your area.
Update Your Resume and Profiles
Your resume and professional profiles create the first impression employers have of you. Even highly qualified candidates may struggle to receive interview invitations if their resume appears outdated or fails to clearly communicate their qualifications.
Improving your employment prospects
- Prepare your resume.
- Set up informational interviews.
- Establish networking contacts.
- Research potential employers.
Refresh Your Resume
Rather than sending the same resume to every employer, tailor it to match each position. Carefully review the job description and incorporate relevant skills, qualifications, and accomplishments that demonstrate why you’re an excellent fit.
Focus on measurable achievements whenever possible. Instead of simply listing responsibilities, explain the results you delivered. Employers appreciate candidates who can demonstrate real impact through quantifiable accomplishments.
Keep formatting clean and professional. Use clear headings, consistent fonts, and concise bullet points that make your resume easy to scan quickly.
Update Your Online Profiles
Recruiters frequently review candidates’ online professional profiles before scheduling interviews. Ensure your profile reflects your current experience, certifications, and career objectives.
A professional headline, updated summary, and detailed work history can significantly improve your visibility during recruiter searches. If possible, include recent accomplishments, volunteer work, certifications, or professional development activities completed during your unemployment period.
Develop New Skills
Many workforce development programs recommended through EDD offer training opportunities that help job seekers strengthen existing skills or prepare for careers in growing industries. Taking courses that help you get a job but still allow you to work full-time. Some examples are federal and state-funded training, computer classes, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, or certificate programs. Keeping your knowledge current makes your application more competitive while giving you additional confidence during interviews.
Be Intentional With Your Applications
Applying to every job or giving your resume to every employer isn’t an effective job search method. Be intentional with your applications and apply for jobs that align with your skills, background, location, and experience. After all, how promising is an in-person job in Iowa if you live in California?
Be open to new opportunities but remain realistic about career expectations. Read job descriptions and make sure you meet standard requirements.
Focus on Quality Instead of Quantity
Research each employer before applying. Learn about the company’s mission, products, workplace culture, and recent developments. This knowledge helps you customize your resume and prepare stronger interview responses.
Instead of applying to every available position, concentrate on opportunities that genuinely match your qualifications, experience, and long-term career goals.
Quality applications generally produce better interview rates than mass applications submitted without customization.
Customize Every Cover Letter
Although some employers no longer require cover letters, submitting one when appropriate allows you to explain why you’re interested in the position and how your experience aligns with the employer’s needs.
Avoid generic introductions. Address the company’s specific requirements and explain how your skills can contribute to its success.
A personalized cover letter demonstrates professionalism and genuine interest in the opportunity.
Track Your Applications
Maintaining an organized record of submitted applications helps prevent missed deadlines and forgotten follow-ups.
Create a spreadsheet or job search tracker that includes:
- Company name
- Position title
- Date applied
- Contact information
- Interview dates
- Follow-up reminders
- Application status
This simple habit makes your job search more organized and allows you to identify which strategies are producing the strongest results.
Job seekers receiving unemployment benefits should also maintain accurate records of their work-search activities when required under applicable state guidelines. Reviewing official EDD guidance can help ensure compliance with current reporting requirements while supporting a structured job search.
Actively Network Online and In-Person
The old saying, “It’s not about what you know, but who you know,” applies to job searching. Sometimes, open positions aren’t listed online. When you meet with professionals in person, they’ll give insight into employment opportunities. Networking is essential for all industries, and getting your foot in the door doesn’t hurt. Chat with people on LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job search sites. You never know what a conversation will turn up.
Networking matters in every industry, and an in-person conversation often surfaces roles that are never advertised. Keep a record of the applications and contacts you make, because EDD can ask for evidence of your job search.
Our note on mistakes to avoid when filing for unemployment covers the reporting side, and the application process sets out the sequence. If a claim was denied while you were actively looking for work, our unemployment benefits team can talk through the options.
