Achieving Equity header
Jobseeker Survey Results
illustration of group of people
The June 28 career fair we held in partnership with a number of other organizations was a huge success. More than 400 jobseekers turned out, far surpassing our expectations. That had us wondering - what was behind the big turnout at a time when employers are struggling to fill positions? Were attendees unemployed or looking for a better job opportunity?

To understand the reasons behind jobseekers’ interest, we conducted an attendee survey after the career fair. We learned that:
  • 59% of jobseekers attended the event because they were unemployed
  • 22% of attendees had jobs but were seeking better ones

Additionally, within one week after the event:
  • 25% had contact with an employer 
  • 15% interviewed with an employer

The most recent release of labor market information helped shed some light on the turnout, as well - the unemployment rate for Contra Costa County is on a slight uptick. The county's unemployment rate was 3.2% in June, up slightly from 2.7% in May. The Oakland-Hayward-Berkeley metropolitan district’s June unemployment rate was 3.0%, up from 2.6% in May.
Need Help Getting Ready
for a Job Interview?
job interview
Job interviews can be the cause of much stress and nervousness. But they don't have to be! The Employment Development Department's Workforce Services offers a webinar that covers interviewing techniques to give you the skills you need to be confident in your next job interview.

The next webinar is Aug. 10, 1:30-3 p.m. Just go to our events calendar and click on the event link to get instructions on how to register.

Check out other events under Upcoming Events below.
Apprenticeship Opportunities Expanding
apprentice working
Employers seeking to add apprentices to their workforce and jobseekers seeking opportunities to earn while they learn may reach their goals with a new influx of funds from the state. With Gov. Newsom's goal of serving 500,000 apprentices by 2029, California's 2022-2023 budget invests more than $231 million in apprenticeship-related spending this year and north of $480 million over the next three years.

apprentice smiling
If you are a manufacturing employer interested in apprenticeships, complete this Apprenticeship Interest Form. The Bay Area Community Colleges and AMBayArea are working to expand manufacturing apprenticeships throughout the region and are gauging interest.






Employers: Access State Resources to Grow Your Business
Want to grow your business? Get free personalized consulting and free or low-cost training from the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). Understand how to get funding, enter new markets, strengthen operations, build resiliency and more.
Microbusiness & Nonprofit
COVID-19 Relief Grant
flyer for microbusiness grants
Upcoming Events
Ongoing
Job Seeker Webinars
Thursday, August 18, 2022 | 5:30 - 8:00 p.m.
East Bay Leadership Council Installation Awards
Wednesday, August 24, 2022 | 10 - 11 a.m.
Why Leadership Matters: Roundtable Discussion on Leadership Struggles and Solutions
If this email was forwarded to you, quickly sign up on our home page to receive future editions of this newsletter and other communications.