LinkedIn basics
Does the “open to work” LinkedIn banner hurt your chances or make you look desperate?
This is a topic of hot debate these days. I’ve always been of the opinion that it doesn’t hurt you, and, in fact makes you more visible to recruiters. I base my opinion on numerous conversations I’ve had with hiring managers and people who have recently found jobs, but opinions do vary.
For instance, some people say that the banner makes it look like you aren’t currently employed, and some hiring managers would prefer to hire people who currently have jobs. I think this is a thoroughly outdated opinion, honestly, and assumes that we’re in a labor market in which employers have all the power. What with the Great Resignation still going strong, that is not the case these days, at least according to my sources.
Others say there’s a bit of a flavor of desperation in advertising that you’re looking. Again, I don’t think this is the case. Many financially successful people work in contract settings, so those folks are usually on the lookout for the next exciting thing—and aren’t likely to take something out of desperation. And other folks are just looking for new ways to grow, or new places to use their skills. Some employers may bypass those who are visibly open to work, but my take on that is that those are the places I wouldn’t want to work, anyway.
One legitimate concern, however, is that your current employer may see the banner and wonder what’s up. The good news on that front is that the “open to work” option – it shows below your profile—appears to be visible only to recruiters. I can’t swear to that, of course, so if you’re worried about it, set a time with a reliable friend update your profile, and have your friend tell you what’s visible on her end.
And let’s let those recruiters find you!
