How to Maximize Your Chances of Getting Your AVGS Voucher Approved
If you're thinking about applying for an AVGS voucher (Aktivierungs- und Vermittlungsgutschein) from the Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit, you’ve probably realized it’s not just about showing up and asking. The AVGS voucher can be a game-changer, giving you access to career coaching, job placement services, or training that can help you secure employment. But to make sure you get that approval, you need to be prepared and take control of the process.
In this article, we’ll cover the key strategies to maximize your chances of receiving a positive approval for your AVGS voucher. Let’s dive into how you can make it happen.
If you're unsure what the AVGS voucher is or want to know who qualifies for one, take a look at this post where I explain everything you need to know about the AVGS Gutschein and how to obtain it.
1. Always Request the AVGS Voucher in Writing
First things first, always request your AVGS voucher in writing. While you can discuss it with your advisor during a meeting, it’s crucial to submit your official request via email or a formal letter. Why? Written requests give you a clear record of when you applied, and it ensures that your request doesn’t get lost in the shuffle. Additionally, if your request is denied, it’s much easier to request a formal explanation if you submitted your application in writing.
Sending an email is perfectly fine—just make sure it’s professional, clear, and includes why you need the voucher, which services you’re looking for, and any research you’ve done on providers (more on that below).
Pro Tip: If you send your request by email, ask for a confirmation of receipt so you have proof that your application has been received and acknowledged.
2. Be Clear About Why You Need the AVGS Voucher
The next step in your application process is being crystal clear about why you need the AVGS voucher. Your advisor needs to understand how this voucher will help you get back into work faster or why you need career coaching to enhance your chances of landing a job.
Here’s how you can strengthen your case:
Explain your current challenges: Are you struggling to find job opportunities in your field? Do you need support to refine your job search strategy or update your skills? Be specific about the roadblocks you’re facing.
Connect the AVGS services to your goals: Whether it’s coaching, job placement services, or short-term training, make sure to explain how the AVGS voucher will help you achieve your career goals.
Address skill gaps and show relevance: You might need to improve your interview skills, enhance your CV, or boost your job search strategy. Demonstrate how the AVGS voucher will help you acquire the skills or certifications necessary to make you a more competitive candidate in today’s job market. Mention how the services you’ll receive align with the current job market needs, making it easier for you to find employment.
Seek guidance on enhancing your CV: A key part of your case can be that you need the guidance of a career coach to identify what additional skills or certifications could be added to your resume. This will make you a more competitive candidate in today’s job market and improve your chances of landing your next role.
Pro Tip: Mention how you’ve been actively job searching but need this additional support to move forward. Show that you’ve been trying, but need that extra push to break into your next role.
3. Research Providers and Coaches Beforehand
Before you apply for the AVGS voucher, it’s important to research certified service providers or coaches that are eligible to work with the voucher. The Jobcenter allows you to choose from a range of certified providers, and having one in mind before your meeting can significantly improve your chances of approval.
For example, Erfolgspfad, a company I’m part of, is fully certified and approved in the Jobcenter database. Having a provider like Erfolgspfad that is already accredited makes it easier for your advisor to approve your request, and it shows that you’ve done your research.
Need help preparing your AVGS application? Let’s work together to build a solid plan and make sure you’re ready to secure that voucher. Book a free call today, and we’ll map out your next steps. Not ready for a call yet, but would like to ask a question? Contact me.
Why is this important? If you go in with a coach or training program already researched, you show your advisor that you’re serious about making the most of the voucher. Plus, if you let them choose for you, there’s a chance you’ll be assigned a random provider that might not be the best fit for your needs.
Here’s what you should research:
Certified providers: Make sure the provider or coach is accredited and listed in the Jobcenter’s database.
Specific services: What type of coaching or training do they offer? Does it align with your goals?
Trial calls: Reach out to potential coaches or providers and ask for a trial call to make sure they’re a good fit before you submit your request.
Pro Tip: When you meet your advisor or send your request via email, mention the specific provider or coach you’ve researched and why you believe they’re the right fit for you. It shows you’ve done your homework and gives your request more weight.
4. Be Proactive and Show Your Commitment
Advisors are more likely to approve the AVGS voucher if they see that you’re motivated and proactive. They need to know that you’re committed to using the voucher wisely and putting in the effort to find a job.
Here’s how to demonstrate your commitment:
Track your job search efforts: Show them a list of jobs you’ve applied to, interviews you’ve attended, and other steps you’ve already taken to find work.
Take initiative: Mention any upskilling you’ve done on your own, such as attending workshops, online courses, or networking events.
Show readiness: Let them know that you’re ready to start using the voucher as soon as it’s approved.
Pro Tip: Prepare a short, clear summary of your recent job search activity to show that you’re serious about finding a job and that the AVGS will help you make even more progress.
5. Follow Up and Stay Persistent
After you’ve submitted your written request for the AVGS voucher, follow up with your advisor to keep things moving forward. Bureaucracy can sometimes slow things down, so staying in touch is important.
A polite follow-up email or phone call a week or so after your initial request can remind your advisor of your application and ensure that it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
Pro Tip: If your request is denied or delayed, don’t give up. Politely ask for the reasons and consider reapplying with more supporting evidence, such as further research on job opportunities or providers.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your AVGS Voucher Application
Applying for the AVGS voucher can open doors to career coaching, job placement services, and skills training that can dramatically boost your employability. But to maximize your chances of approval, it’s crucial to take control of the process.
Request the voucher in writing to have everything on record and make it easier to request a formal explanation if needed.
Be clear and specific about why you need the voucher.
Do your research and choose a provider ahead of time, like Erfolgspfad, which is fully certified and approved by the Jobcenter.
Show your commitment and readiness to start the process.
By following these strategies, you’ll be in a much stronger position to get the support you need to move forward in your career.
Need help preparing your AVGS application? Let’s work together to build a solid plan and make sure you’re ready to secure that voucher. Book a free call today, and we’ll map out your next steps. Not ready for a call yet, but would like to ask a question? Contact me.
This all sounds great, but maybe you're still wondering if coaching is the right path for you or how it can actually make a difference. Fair enough—I appreciate making informed choices myself! If you’re focused on landing your next job, check out my post, 11 Ways Career Coaching Can Help You Land Your Next Job. And if you’re thinking about a complete career change, here’s an absolute must-read: Making a Career Change? Here’s How Career Coaching Can Help.
Until our next breakthrough!
