Proving Your Job Search Efforts: How to Do It Right

The monthly "Proof of personal job search efforts" is more than just a form – it is the crucial evidence of your active job search and the prerequisite for receiving unemployment benefits. Precise and complete proof not only protects you from benefit reductions but also documents your path back into the job market. This expert guide shows you how to master the process with confidence.

The 3 Golden Rules: Quantity, Quality, and Punctuality

Every RAV consultation is based on three fundamental pillars you should internalize:

1. The Right Number (Quantity): Your RAV advisor determines the number of monthly applications individually. The standard requirement is 10 to 12 high-quality applications per month. These must be spread sensibly throughout the month (approx. 2-3 per week).
2. The Right Kind (Quality): Apply for positions that fit your profile. Pure "pro-forma applications" for unsuitable jobs are not accepted. Every application must have a realistic chance of success.
3. The Right Time (Punctuality): The proof must reach your RAV by the 5th day of the following month at the latest. This deadline is non-negotiable.

What Officially Counts as a "Job Search Effort"?

Not every activity is valued equally. Here is a clear overview:

• Written Applications (The Gold Standard): Applications for advertised positions via email or online portals are the most important and clearly recognized form.
• Spontaneous Applications (Unsolicited Applications): These are valuable and show initiative. They generally count fully but must be well-documented (To whom did you write? When?).
• Telephone Inquiries: A call to inquire about details of a position counts as an effort. Be sure to note the date, time, and the name of the contact person.
• Personal Visits: If you introduce yourself in person at a company, this is a valid effort. Again, note the date and contact person.
• Private Employment Agencies & Network Contacts: Conversations and applications via recruitment agencies or headhunters are also fully valid efforts.

Mastering the Form: How to Fill It Out Perfectly

Precision is your best ally. Take your time with each column.

• Date: The day you sent the application or made the call.
• Company, Address, Contact Person: Be as precise as possible. "HR Department" is good; "Ms. Miller, HR" is better.
• Job Title: The exact title as per the advertisement. For spontaneous applications, e.g., "Unsolicited application for a logistics position".
• Type of Application: Choose from: "written", "by email", "in person", "by phone".
• Result: Here you enter the status: "in review", "rejection received on [date]", "interview on [date]", "job offer received". Keep this updated.

The Top 5 Mistakes That Lead to Suspension Days – And How to Avoid Them

1. Missed Deadline: The proof arrives after the 5th of the month. Solution: Submit your proof digitally via arbeit.swiss. It will be transmitted automatically and on time. Set a recurring calendar reminder for the 3rd of each month.
2. Too Few Applications: The agreed-upon number is not met. Solution: Plan your week and set fixed times for job searching. If you manage less due to illness or intensive interviews, proactively communicate this to your RAV advisor.
3. Insufficient Quality: Obvious "pro-forma applications". Solution: Focus on fit. Your RAV advisor can review your application documents and provide feedback.
4. Incomplete Documentation: Missing names, dates, or illegible handwriting. Solution: Keep the list digitally. Make it a habit to fill in the entry immediately after each application.
5. Missing Supporting Documents: You cannot provide a copy of the application or email upon request. Solution: Create a folder on your computer for each month and save all applications and relevant emails as PDFs.

Back to the guide: Unemployed in Switzerland: The Complete A-Z Guide

Let Your Assistant Handle the Admin

Organizing a job search is demanding. The MatchMyCareer Assistant is designed to minimize this administrative burden. It helps you log your activities completely and ensures your proofs always meet official requirements – so you can focus on what truly matters: your next career move.