Should You Use LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” Feature?
Are you thinking about using LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” badge? It’s a small feature that can make a big difference in how you show up in your job search.
There are two kinds of job seekers:
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Active job seekers are applying and interviewing now.
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Passive job seekers are open to opportunities but not actively applying.
✅ What Does “Open to Work” Do?
This feature lets you tell recruiters—or your entire LinkedIn network—that you’re open to new roles. You can choose to show it publicly or keep it private by only alerting recruiters.
Many professionals use the feature while they’re still working. It doesn’t always mean someone is unemployed.
👍 Pros of Using “Open to Work”
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Better visibility with recruiters
Recruiters can find your profile faster when the feature is turned on. -
Support from your network
If you show the badge publicly, your connections may tag you in job posts or refer you.
👎 Cons to Be Aware Of
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Job offers that don’t fit
You may receive messages for roles that don’t align with your goals. -
Potential bias
Some recruiters prefer candidates who aren’t actively job hunting, depending on the industry.
💡 Best Tips for Job Seekers
Whether you use the badge or not, don’t ignore your personal network. Often, the best leads come from people you already know.
If you activate “Open to Work,” track how your profile performs for 30 days. Are you getting more views? Are recruiters reaching out? Use that data to guide your strategy.
Author: Henntiher Gant
CHRO at Career Image Solutions — helping professionals succeed through expert hiring strategies and workforce development.