Networking is often one of the most underutilised tools of a job seeker, however it can be one of the most effective ways to take control of your job search. Recruitment can be costly and with more companies looking at ways to hire through referrals or word-of-mouth including via social media before advertising a role, letting your network know you’re available will ensure you are tapping into the hidden job market.

If you are seeking your next career move, here are 3 ways to communicate with your network that you are open to opportunities via LinkedIn.

1. A Farewell/Exit Message  

If you're in the process of leaving a company, a farewell message is the ideal place to start. It allows you to reflect on your experience, express gratitude and indirectly mention you are seeking new opportunities.  LinkedIn Farewell or Exit messages typically acknowledge a significant amount of time at an organisation, celebrate successes and thank colleagues, customers and/or professional networks for their support. 

Example

‘’Today marks my last day @ (tag the company) After 15 rewarding years, I feel ready to embrace a new challenge. I want to extend my thanks to @ (tag a couple of key stakeholders) for the incredible career development opportunities that have undoubtedly shaped my journey ahead. It has been a pleasure working alongside @ (reference some team members or suppliers)

As I embark on this new chapter, I am keen to connect with and speak to anyone in my network who may be looking for additional support with (reference your areas of expertise) within their business’’

2. A General Post with a Call to Action  

If you have already left the company and a significant of time has passed or maybe you didn’t leave on great terms, another option is to do a general post highlighting your skills, what you're looking for, and including a direct call to action—such as asking for referrals, opportunities or even a LinkedIn recommendation.

Example

“Hi everyone,

I am currently seeking my next career move and I am available for projects, interim or permanent opportunities in the following areas (here you can highlight key skills or expertise)

(For example)

• Executive Coaching, Career Coaching & Pre Retirement Coaching
• Workshop Facilitation, Training & Development
• Career Transition & Redeployment Projects
• Resilience & Change Management Coaching & Training

How you can help (include a call to action)

• Please like, comment and share this post with your network
• Recommend job boards, recruiters – any guidance welcome
• If you have worked with me before, add a recommendation to my profile

This approach encourages engagement and makes it easy for your network to understand how they can help you with a specific follow up action.

3. Use the #OpenToWork Hashtag – Make Yourself Discoverable

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of adding the #OpenToWork hashtag to your profile as it increases your visibility to recruiters, hiring managers and your network who may be actively searching LinkedIn for their next hire. You can include specific roles or industries you're targeting in your #opentowork post.

Example

“Excited to take on a new challenge! I’m currently #OpenToWork and exploring roles in (list the areas or industries of interest) It would be great to reconnect or meet with likeminded professionals’’

Final thoughts

Most importantly, if you are using LinkedIn to let your network know you are looking for your next move, make sure you respond to and engage with each comment and follow up with a direct message to see how they can support you further.