British graphic designer unveils ‘Desperate’ badge for LinkedIn; find out what it means |

Have you noticed that job seekers are clicking on the ad ‘Open for work‘ Badge on her LinkedIn Profiles to stand out and attract recruiters? While some see this badge as a sign of desperation, UK-based graphic designer Courtney Summer has a different perspective.
Industry experts have often commented on the “Open for Work” banner on LinkedIn, pointing out that its use could be seen as a “significant red flag” for those actively looking for a job. A graphic designer recently voiced her opinion on this perception, creating a new banner that proudly proclaims her “desperate” job-hunting status. She argues that people looking for new positions, especially those affected by layoffs, should not hesitate to express their urgency.

Breaking the stigma of the #OpenToWork banner

Courtney Summer Myersa UK-based graphic designer, pointed to the ongoing debate surrounding the #OpenToWork banner. Many believe it can put off recruiters and hiring managers as it can convey an image of desperation. However, Myers supports this portrayal, stating: “As someone who has faced redundancy, I am indeed desperate, and there is no shame in that.”
Myers stressed that being laid off does not reflect badly on a person’s skills or professionalism. She argued that people should not be ashamed to admit that they need to cover their expenses and feed their families, and encouraged everyone to confidently carry the #OpenToWork banner.

A new banner #Desperate: What are LinkedIn users saying?

One LinkedIn user stressed that we need to rethink the way we talk about job losses, stating: “It’s important to change the way layoffs are handled. You didn’t lose your job, but your position was impacted. As you said yourself, that’s unfortunate. I wish you all the best in your job search!”
Another user praised the boldness of the move, saying, “Great work! I completely agree that no one should be ashamed of looking for work. I’m sure opportunities will come your way soon and I will definitely keep you in mind for my upcoming design projects.”
A third commenter expressed support and wished them luck: “Good luck in your job search. I hope you find an opportunity where your skills are truly valued and don’t just take a position at a company that may not value your talents.”
In a related interview, former Google recruiter Nolan Church noted that displaying the “Open for Work” banner may not be the best strategy, as it could create the impression of a power imbalance in conversations with potential employers.
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