If you’ve used the platform for a job search, it’s likely you’ve seen LinkedIn’s Open to Work feature.
It’s designed to let recruiters – and in some cases, your entire network – know that you’re looking for new opportunities.
Simple enough, right? But as with most things, it’s not always straightforward.
While the feature can give your job search a boost, it also comes with a few drawbacks that could work against you depending on your current situation. Let’s break down the pros and cons, how to switch it on (or off), and whether it’s worth using in the first place.
LinkedIn introduced Open to Work in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic after many companies put some of their employees on furlough.
The idea was simple: make it easier for people to show they’re available and help recruiters find them quicker.
You set your job preferences, choose your ideal location and work type, then decide who sees the update. The two visibility options are:
The second option is more noticeable, but it also means anyone – including colleagues, managers, or clients – can see you’re searching. That’s not ideal for everyone.
In some cases, yes.
LinkedIn has said users who turn on Open to Work receive around 40% more InMail messages from recruiters.
With over 220m people, according to NBC using the feature, it’s clearly gained traction. That said, your results will depend on how strong your profile is and how specific your job preferences are.
If you’re actively applying for roles and your LinkedIn is up to date, Open to Work can help give your search an extra push.
One of the biggest advantages of Open to Work is that it puts you on recruiters’ radar without you having to reach out first.
Some might consider it to add emphasis to their LinkedIn headline – something we have discussed on our blog.
Despite the potential benefits, Open to Work isn’t always the right choice – especially if you’re still in a job and trying to keep your search quiet.
There’s also the issue of volume. Turning it on could flood your inbox with roles that don’t fit your skills or preferences. That might be manageable, or it might just feel like noise.
The answer depends on your current position, how urgent your search is and how much visibility you’re comfortable with.
If you’re out of work, the green banner could help you stand out and attract faster responses from recruiters. There’s no real downside to making your intentions clear.
If you’re still employed but looking, the private option (recruiters only) might be a safer bet – just keep in mind that no privacy setting is completely watertight.
And if you’re not sure yet? Perhaps, try turning it on privately. Give it a few weeks, monitor the quality of responses, and switch it off if it doesn’t lead anywhere.
No matter which route you go, make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and clearly highlights your experience, skills and goals.
That’ll do far more for you than any banner or badge ever could. If you haven’t looked at how to add your CV to LinkedIn, now is the time.
Remember, if you’re unsure about how to progress in your job search – or profesional life more generally – do take a look at our career coaching services.
Learn from seasoned industry experts with our 1-on-1 Coaching service!
Changing your settings is quick and easy. Here’s how to do it:
That’s all it takes. Whether you want to quietly remove the setting or get rid of the public badge, it only takes a minute.
Yes – though it depends how you do it. The private setting is discreet and effective. The public badge is more noticeable and can be helpful if you’re not currently employed.
It means you’re open to hearing about job opportunities and have shared this info on your profile, either privately with recruiters or publicly with everyone.
If you’re actively searching, it can definitely help. If you’re in a job and want to keep things quiet, stick to the private setting or consider leaving it off for now.
Not usually, but in some industries, the public banner may be seen as too forward. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use it, just be aware of how it might come across.
LinkedIn tries to block your company from seeing this if you choose the private option, but it’s not guaranteed. Use with caution if privacy is a concern.
Go to your profile, click the “Open to” section, then either delete it or change your visibility preferences.
We hope you found this article useful. If that’s the case, check out some of our most popular blogs including:
LinkedIn’s Open to Work feature can be a helpful signal to recruiters – especially if you’re in between roles or hoping to move quickly. But it’s not a guaranteed path to your next job, and it’s not the right fit for everyone.
If you’re thinking about using it, weigh up how public you want to be and whether it fits the kind of role you’re after.
And remember, your profile, CV and application strategy still matter more than any setting or status update.
Need help getting your CV writing or LinkedIn profile in shape before putting yourself out there? Contact us – we’re here to help you make the best impression.
