Is Using the “Open-to-Work” Frame on LinkedIn Worth? Pros and Cons

Since its launch in 2003, LinkedIn has been continuously improving its efforts to help job seekers find jobs. One of these efforts is the launch of the "Open-to-Work" badge. This feature has become increasingly popular, with over 28 million users having activated it, according to LinkedIn.

However, is it really necessary to use this "Open-to-Work" badge to increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters? In fact, there is still an open debate about the effectiveness of using this feature, whether it is beneficial for job seekers, or even detrimental because it makes you look desperate or unemployed.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the pros, cons, and strategic considerations to help you answer the question: Should I use the open-to-work frame on LinkedIn?

What is the Open-to-Work LinkedIn Feature?

LinkedIn's Open-to-Work feature lets users signal to recruiters and hiring managers that they're actively seeking new job opportunities. When you activate the feature, you can indicate your desired job type, function, industry, and location. This information is then visible to recruiters and hiring managers searching for potential candidates.

There are two options for using the Open-to-Work feature: "Recruiters Only" (without a photo frame) or "All LinkedIn Members" (with a photo frame).

The "Recruiters Only" option ensures that your job search preferences are only visible to those using a premium LinkedIn Recruiter account. This option also helps protect your privacy by preventing anyone at your current company with a Recruiter account from seeing that you're looking for a new job.

Meanwhile, the "All LinkedIn Members" option makes your job search status visible to everyone on LinkedIn, including your current employer, and displays a visual indicator (photo frame) on your profile picture.

Also Read: LinkedIn Mastery: Boosting Your Social Selling Index

Is Using LinkedIn’s Open to Work Feature Really Helpful?

Unlike a flashing neon sign screaming "Job Wanted," LinkedIn's "Open to Work" feature offers a subtler approach to broadcasting your availability. But is it a strategic spotlight or a flashing caution sign for recruiters? The answer depends on your career goals. Here are some of the potential pros and cons of this feature to help you decide if it illuminates the right path for your job search.

The Pros

Diving in, let's explore how this feature can boost your job search:

1. Greater Visibility

Recruiters frequently use LinkedIn to find potential candidates, and the Open-to-Work filter helps them identify those actively seeking new roles. As reported from the LinkedIn Blog, there is a 40% increase in recruiter messages for users with the feature enabled.

2. Networking Opportunities

The Open-to-Work frame publicly indicates your job search status to your connections, prompting them to share job leads and make introductions. Studies show that networking is crucial for job search success, and this feature facilitates those connections. In fact, according to the LinkedIn Blog, members who add the Open-to-Work photo frame are 20% more likely to receive messages from their community that potentially lead to new job opportunities.

3. Increased Confidence

Openly declaring your job search through the Open-to-Work feature can be empowering. It demonstrates initiative, a proactive approach to career development, and an openness to exploring new paths. Projecting confidence is crucial in the job search process, and this feature can bolster that self-assurance, encouraging a positive outlook and fostering the belief that opportunities are within reach.

4. Targeted Job Matches

LinkedIn's algorithm leverages the information provided when enabling Open-to-Work to curate a more personalized job feed. This targeted approach ensures that the displayed job recommendations and alerts align more with your specific skills, experience, and interests. Applying promptly to these tailored postings can significantly enhance your chances of securing interviews and offers.

5. Broader Reach

Even smaller companies without sophisticated recruiting tools can quickly identify potential candidates through the Open-to-Work badge, creating opportunities beyond those actively pursued by recruiters.

The Cons

While LinkedIn's Open-to-Work feature offers numerous advantages, it's essential to consider potential drawbacks before activating it:

1. Current Employer's Perception

Seeing the banner could make your employer question your dedication to your current role. They may worry you're not fully engaged or invested in the company's success. This can erode trust and damage the professional relationship you've built.

2. Limited to Recruiters

Many job opportunities aren't advertised publicly and are filled through personal connections and networking. The Open-to-Work banner might not be effective in reaching these hidden opportunities.

3. Perceived Desperation

Some employers might perceive the Open-to-Work banner as a sign of desperation, leading them to question your qualifications or undervalue your skills. This perception could negatively impact your negotiating power during salary discussions.

Also Read: How to Negotiate Your Salary in an Interview: Tips and Rules

4. Unwanted Job Offer

The Open-to-Work banner can attract messages from recruiters, some of whom might not fit your career goals or interests. Sifting through these messages can be time-consuming and frustrating, and it might detract from your focus on targeted applications and networking efforts.

5. Privacy Concerns

Even when the Open-to-Work status is restricted to recruiters, it might still be visible to colleagues, friends, or acquaintances within your LinkedIn network. This could lead to uncomfortable conversations, rumors, or speculation about your job search. While LinkedIn allows you to choose who sees your Open-to-Work status, there's always a risk of information leaks or accidental exposure.

When to Use the Open-to-Work Feature?

Broadening your job search on LinkedIn using the Open-to-Work feature requires careful consideration. While it can be a powerful tool, its effectiveness depends greatly on your circumstances. These are the best times to use this feature:

1. When You Are Seeking Job Passively

If you're not actively seeking a new role but are open to exploring potential opportunities, activating Open-to-Work can passively expand your network. This can attract recruiters and hiring managers seeking individuals with your skills and experience, even if you haven't formally applied for any positions.

2. When You Feel Confidence

Using Open-to-Work can be bold if you're confident in your abilities and eager to take charge of your career narrative. It signals your proactive approach to career growth and lets potential employers know you're open to new challenges.

2. When You Are An Employee of Famous Brand

Working for a highly respected company can give you an edge in the job market. By enabling Open-to-Work, you leverage your employer's reputation to showcase your capabilities and attract recruiters who value that association.

4. When You Have Powerful Networking

If you have a vast and well-established network on LinkedIn, turning on Open-to-Work can exponentially increase your visibility. Your connections may be more inclined to share relevant job postings, offer introductions, or recommend you for positions.

When It May be Better Not to Use the Open-to-Work Feature?

However, there are specific situations where activating it might not be the most strategic move for your job search:

1. When You Are Unemployed

Unfortunately, there can be a stigma associated with unemployment in the job market. If you've recently been laid off or are unemployed, using Open-to-Work might inadvertently trigger unconscious biases in some recruiters or hiring managers.

2. When You Are In Career Transition

Changing industries or career paths can be exciting but also challenging. If your experience doesn't directly align with your new target field, using Open-to-Work might raise questions about your suitability for specific roles.

3. When You Have Not Much Experiences

Open-to-Work might not be the most effective strategy for those with limited experience and a smaller network. It's essential to focus on building your professional brand and establishing a solid foundation before broadcasting your job search too widely.

By carefully evaluating these factors and tailoring your approach to your specific situation, you can strategically leverage the Open-to-Work feature and increase your chances of finding the right opportunity.

How to Get Open-to-Work on Your LinkedIn Profile

If you've read through this article and have carefully decided that you're ready to leverage LinkedIn's Open-to-Work feature to boost your job search, here are the steps you can take to add the banner to your profile:

1. Log in to your LinkedIn account.

2. Go to your profile: Click on your profile picture in the top right corner, then select "View Profile."

3. Click on the "Open to" button: On your profile page, there will be a button that says "Open to" with a briefcase icon. Click on it.

4. Select "Finding a new job": A dropdown menu will appear. Select "Finding a new job."

5. Choose job preferences:

• Job titles: Start typing the job titles you are interested in and select from the suggestions. You can add multiple job titles.
• Job locations: Enter the locations where you would like to work. You can add multiple locations.
• Start date: Choose when you are available to start a new job.
• Job types: Select the types of employment you are looking for (Full-time, Part-time, Contract, etc.)

5. Choose who to share with: You can choose to share your Open-to-Work status with all LinkedIn members or recruiters only.

7. Click "Save": Once you've customized your preferences, click "Save" to activate the Open-to-Work banner.

8. Your Open-to-Work badge is now ready.

LinkedIn's Open-to-Work feature can be influential in your job search, boosting your visibility to recruiters and expanding your network. However, it's essential to consider your circumstances and career goals before deciding to use it. You can determine if this tool aligns with your job search strategy by carefully weighing the pros and cons outlined in this guide.

If you're ready to explore new career opportunities and broaden your horizons, consider joining Talentport. Our global talent platform connects you with various employers and roles, empowering you to take the next step in your professional journey.