A Frame That Speaks Volumes
LinkedIn has long been a platform where professionals showcase their achievements, seek new opportunities, and build meaningful career connections. For jobseekers, the green “Open to Work” banner seems like a badge of honesty — a visual cue to potential employers that they’re actively on the market. But in Dubai’s fast-paced, competitive job landscape, some recruiters have started viewing this innocent-looking frame in a different light.
A number of hiring managers and recruiters across Dubai say the “Open to Work” frame can actually do more harm than good. It may sound counterintuitive, especially for those desperately trying to get noticed. But behind closed doors, a different narrative is unfolding.
The Perception Problem
One of the main reasons behind this unexpected sentiment is perception. Recruiters are human — and that means they’re influenced by first impressions, even on digital platforms like LinkedIn. The “Open to Work” frame, instead of communicating confidence, sometimes gives off an impression of desperation.
Many recruiters admit, though not always publicly, that when they see a profile with that frame, they sometimes question why that person hasn’t already secured a role. The assumption — even if unfair — is that truly exceptional candidates are already in demand and don’t need to announce their availability.
This isn’t to say the banner guarantees rejection. But in a city like Dubai, where competition is fierce and impressions matter, anything that raises a doubt in a recruiter’s mind could be the difference between getting a callback and being overlooked.
The Psychology Behind Hiring in Dubai
Dubai’s job market thrives on a mix of ambition, performance, and branding. Professionals are expected to carry themselves with confidence — both offline and online. This includes how they communicate their availability.
When a recruiter sees someone subtly networking, engaging with industry content, or getting recommendations — without using the “Open to Work” frame — it often signals quiet confidence. It shows the person is open to new opportunities but isn’t broadcasting their job hunt in a way that might suggest urgency.
In contrast, the green frame can be misinterpreted as a sign of pressure. In a region where image and first impressions carry significant weight, these subtle signals can shape hiring decisions more than we realize.
Recruiters Want What Others Want
Here’s the honest truth: some recruiters are swayed by perceived demand. If a candidate is openly job hunting, the assumption might be that no one else is interested in them — which leads to further disinterest. But if a candidate appears in control, in-demand, and selective, they suddenly seem more valuable.
It’s a paradox, but it mirrors real-world behavior. People often want what others want. Recruiters are no different. If you position yourself as a highly skilled professional already contributing value in your current role — even if you’re quietly looking — you’re more likely to attract attention than if you wear your job search on your digital sleeve.
So What Should Jobseekers Do Instead?
If you’re job hunting in Dubai and feel stuck, removing the “Open to Work” banner might be your first quiet power move. But this doesn’t mean you stop putting yourself out there.
Here are some powerful alternatives:
1. Let Your Work Speak Loudly
Use your LinkedIn headline and summary to highlight achievements, not just roles. Focus on what problems you solve. Recruiters are drawn to value, not vacancy.
2. Make Strategic Connections
Instead of passively waiting for opportunities, start reaching out to people within your desired companies. Comment on their posts. Join conversations. Be visible without being loud.
3. Update Your Profile Smartly
You can still mark yourself as “open to work” privately — only visible to recruiters. This ensures you stay on their radar without sending a public signal that might be misread.
4. Share Value, Not Just Your CV
Start posting insights, reflections on your industry, or lessons from your career journey. These types of posts attract attention and position you as someone proactive and thoughtful — qualities Dubai companies value.
5. Ask for Recommendations
When others vouch for you, your credibility skyrockets. A solid recommendation can do more than a green banner ever could. It tells recruiters you’ve made a real impact and built lasting relationships.
The Dubai Factor
Every city has its own rhythm when it comes to hiring. In Dubai, personal branding, discretion, and the power of perception play a massive role in professional success. The city values bold ambition — but it also respects quiet confidence.
For many professionals, especially expats, the job search is more than just a career move. It’s about survival, progress, and dreams. That’s why it’s so important to understand how even small digital choices can have major effects.
Being Job Ready Is Different from Being Job Desperate
The most successful jobseekers in Dubai are the ones who position themselves as solutions, not applicants. They don’t ask for opportunities — they offer them. They don’t shout for attention — they earn it.
This is why the “Open to Work” frame might be doing the opposite of what it’s meant to do. Not because there’s anything wrong with seeking work — but because in a high-performance city like Dubai, how you present that search matters deeply.
Final Thoughts
Job hunting is hard, and the pressure to stand out can sometimes lead us to make choices that feel right — but don’t work in our favor. While the “Open to Work” frame may have helped others in different contexts, it’s not always the best strategy for Dubai’s unique hiring culture.
Instead, focus on building a digital presence that reflects your strengths, your value, and your confidence. You’re not just looking for a job — you’re offering a solution. And in a city that thrives on excellence, that subtle shift in mindset could be your biggest advantage.
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