I’ve noticed a bit of debate recently surrounding the “Open to Work” banner on LinkedIn. Some people feel like it makes them look desperate for work, while others simply don’t like the way it looks on their profile. So, I wanted to chime in and offer my two cents on the matter.
First off, let me say this: There is nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to having the “Open to Work” banner on your profile. The job market is tough right now, and no one will be surprised if you’re looking for new opportunities. In fact, it can be an important tool to make you more visible to recruiters.
Why “Open to Work” Makes a Difference
When you’re actively job hunting, you want your profile to be as visible as possible to both recruiters and potential employers. Trust me, as a recruiter, I prioritize candidates who have their “Open to Work” status visible. It immediately signals that you’re ready and available for opportunities, and in a fast-moving market, that can make all the difference.
Right now, the market is competitive. There are more candidates than available jobs, and as a recruiter, I often prioritise people who need my help immediately. So, when I’m scanning LinkedIn profiles, those with the “Open to Work” banner stand out. It tells me you’re actively looking, and I’ll be more likely to consider you for relevant roles.
Not a Fan of the Green Banner? There’s an Alternative
If you’re not a fan of the green “Open to Work” banner for aesthetic reasons, there’s a solution! You can still set your profile to “Open to Work” for recruiters only. This means that while the general public won’t see the banner, recruiters who are looking for candidates will be able to find you more easily.
This is a great option for those who want to maintain a more polished or private profile but still want the benefits of being visible to recruiters.
Be Transparent About Your Availability
Another key point to keep in mind—if you’ve recently moved on from a role, make a decision on how you want to present that on your profile. Should you leave your last job listed as ongoing, or should you update it with your actual end date?
Here’s my recommendation :If you’re open to freelancing or available for new work right away, be upfront about it. Put your end date in and consider listing yourself as self-employed or a freelancer. This can make it easier for recruiters to find you when they’re searching for someone available for a short-term or urgent project.
Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile for Maximum Visibility
I’ve mentioned this before, but it bears repeating: the skills section of your LinkedIn profile is one of the most important areas to focus on. Make sure you’re accurately listing your skills, both within your job history and in the skills section itself.
When recruiters search for candidates, they often use keywords tied to specific skills, so having this section filled out accurately is crucial.
Cohesive Branding on LinkedIn
While your skills are the priority, it’s also beneficial to ensure that your LinkedIn profile has a cohesive and professional look. This includes your profile photo, cover photo, and even your headline. It’s a good idea to streamline these elements so that they match your resume and personal brand.
If you have a personal website or portfolio, make sure to link it on your profile. Some candidates also allow recruiters to access their CV directly via LinkedIn, which can help speed up the process when you’re being considered for a role.
Final Thoughts
LinkedIn is an incredibly powerful tool for your job search, so make sure you’re making the most of it. Whether you choose to display the “Open to Work” banner publicly or just for recruiters, the key is to ensure your profile is visible, up-to-date, and accurately reflects your skills and availability.