LinkedIn's "Open to Work" feature tells recruiters (and optionally, everyone) that you're job hunting. But is it right for you?

The Two Options

Option 1: Visible to Recruiters Only

Only people using LinkedIn Recruiter can see you're open to work. Your network and current employer won't know.

Option 2: Green "Open to Work" Banner

A visible banner on your profile photo that everyone can see.

Pros of Using Open to Work

Recruiter Visibility:

• Recruiters actively filter for open candidates
• You appear higher in recruiter searches
• Signals you'll be responsive to outreach

Network Activation:

• Friends and connections know to send opportunities your way
• Shows you're not hiding your search
• Can generate referrals

Normalizes Job Searching:

• Layoffs are common; no shame in looking
• Shows confidence, not desperation

Cons of Using Open to Work

Employer Concerns:

• Current employer might see it (if employed)
• Some perceive it as a red flag

Perception Risks:

• Some recruiters/hiring managers have outdated biases
• May be perceived as desperate (though this is changing)

Spam Increase:

• More messages from low-quality recruiters
• Irrelevant job suggestions

Recommendations by Situation

Use the visible banner if:

• You've been laid off (publicly known)
• You want to activate your network
• You're in a field where it's common
• You're confident in your value

Use the recruiter-only option if:

• You're still employed and searching discreetly
• You're in a conservative industry
• You're worried about current employer seeing

Don't use either if:

• You're not actively looking
• You're receiving enough inbound interest already

Making the Banner Work

If you use it, optimize everything else:

• Professional headshot
• Compelling headline beyond "Open to Work"
• Complete, keyword-rich profile
• Active engagement (posts, comments)

Turning It Off

Remember to turn off "Open to Work" once you've accepted an offer. Nothing says "flight risk" like leaving it on at your new job!