New Look and Functionality for Online Jobs System
NMDWS Integrates Reemployment and Unemployment Services
For Immediate Release
October 16, 2012
Contact: Joy Forehand
505.841.8450
New Look and Functionality for Online Jobs System
NMDWS Integrates Reemployment and Unemployment Services
(Albuquerque, NM) – The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS) will launch the redesigned New Mexico Workforce Connection online system (www.jobs.state.nm.us) as the single portal for reemployment and unemployment services in New Mexico. As of Saturday, October 20, 2012, all Unemployment Insurance (UI) claimants accessing claim information, applying for benefits, and certifying online will log in first to the New Mexico Workforce Connection system (www.jobs.state.nm.us) and then can log into the UI Claims system located in various locations, including on the left-hand side of the page under “Unemployment Insurance.” UI claimants will be required to maintain usernames and passwords for both the online jobs system and the UI claims system.
“By integrating the unemployment online system within the New Mexico Workforce Connection system, we will quickly engage individuals receiving Unemployment Insurance, assist them with their employment needs, and communicate all of the resources and services available to them as they apply or certify for benefits,” said Cabinet Secretary Celina Bussey. “All claimants are required to register in this system within the first 14 days of receiving benefits, and by integrating the UI system as part of the online jobs system, we are better able to hold those accountable for meeting the basic requirements of the program.”
In addition to connecting individuals with unemployment services, the system is the central location for exploring job openings across the state, applying for opportunities, developing effective resumes, and maintaining a record of job search activities. Employers can advertise job openings, find qualified candidates, and access an array of information including training programs and employer incentives. Via the “My Dashboard” feature, an individual can store all of their job search correspondence, create an employment plan, maintain a calendar, and have quick access to additional job seeker services. Employers also have a tailored version of this feature including the calendar, a recruitment plan, message center, and labor market information at the touch of a button.
The launch of the New Mexico Workforce Connection system redesign is the first step in integrating the Unemployment Insurance program, employment services for job seekers and employers, and valuable labor market information in one convenient location. Future system enhancements will include the department’s ability to verify whether claimants have fulfilled weekly work search requirements, improved messaging capability to claimants about resources available to them, and increased monitoring functionality of job search activities.
In addition to linking reemployment services directly with the Unemployment Insurance program, Secretary Bussey’s vision for the department to become more engaged with the business community and to promote the vast array of employment-related services and resources available to citizens across the state. Her vision includes the Department of Workforce Solutions as a leader in and a facilitator of a competitive workforce for the benefit of all New Mexicans.
For additional information about the New Mexico Workforce Connection online system, the Unemployment Insurance program, and additional resources available through the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, visit www.dws.state.nm.us.