If you’re job searching in 2025, chances are you’ve thought about turning on LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” feature. You’ve probably seen the green banner on other profiles, or maybe you’ve hesitated to use it yourself.
We get it. There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there.
Should you turn it on? Should it be public or private? Is it helpful or a red flag?
Let’s clear it up.
At Your Next Jump, we help job seekers navigate LinkedIn with clarity and confidence. Here’s what we recommend, and why.
✅ Use the Banner—Publicly
LinkedIn’s own data says it best:
• 40% more likely to receive InMail messages from recruiters
• 20% more likely to get helpful outreach from your network
If you restrict your setting to “Recruiters Only,” you’re limiting your visibility to companies that pay for LinkedIn Recruiter. Not every company does.
By setting your “Open to Work” publicly, you open the door to:
• Opportunities from companies you’ve never heard of
• Roles that haven’t even been posted yet
• People in your network who might be able to help
Pro tip: After 2–3 weeks, toggle the feature off over the weekend, and turn it back on Monday morning. This gives you a visibility boost in recruiter search results each week.
🚫 Skip the Generic “Open to Work” Post
It’s tempting to hit “post” using LinkedIn’s default language. But a generic update won’t stand out, and may even get overlooked.
Instead, create a customized, compelling post that communicates your value clearly. Here’s what to include:
• 🎯 Target roles and industries – Be specific about what you’re looking for.
• 📍 Location and preferences: Remote, hybrid, or in-person? Let people know.
• 🧠 Skills and strengths: Highlight your areas of expertise.
• 📈 Past impact: Use 3–5 bullet points to showcase your accomplishments (metrics = bonus).
• 🤝 How your network can help: Be clear: ask for referrals, introductions, or shares.
• 🏢 Companies you admire: Tag them! It boosts visibility and might spark a connection.
Important: Avoid using the hashtag #OpenToWork in your post. It can attract unwanted attention (including from scammers). Let your content do the talking.
Banner + Post = A Powerful Combo
Using the “Open to Work” banner and posting about your job search isn’t overkill, it’s strategy.
• The banner helps recruiters find you.
• A thoughtful post helps your network support you.
Together, they increase your visibility, expand your reach, and strengthen your personal brand.
Want to take your professional brand beyond LinkedIn? A professional branding website gives recruiters a dedicated page showcasing your experience, achievements, and portfolio, all in one place.
Job searching can feel uncertain, but showing up with intention makes a difference.
Focus on what you can control.
Be proactive. Be visible. And most importantly, be you.
You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back.