Clever Linkedin hack helps you to find a job – without current boss finding out

Searching for a new job can be a daunting experience - especially if you're having a completley different career change.

Whether you're sick and tired of your tyrant manager, reckon you can get a huge salary boost elsewhere, or want a more enjoyable 9-5 - there are many reasons people want a new job.

And while the idea of handing in your notice to a boss you dislike might seem thrilling; it's worth keeping your plans on the down-low until you've secured an offer elsewhere.

However, if you're advertising your intentions online on sites such as LinkedIn - a social media app designed to help users find employment and network - you risk your boss finding out.

This can lead to a rather sticky situation that most people would like to avoid. Luckily, there is a clever hack to keep your job search hidden from those you'd rather not have in the know...

Taking to TikTok, careers expert Cerys explained how many LinkedIn users set their profile to 'Open To Work' which decorates their profile with a green banner.

This helps recruiters indentify those wanting to explore new opportunites and can bolster your chances of being hired.

To prevent your manager spotting the change to your profile, Cerys scrolling down to the 'visibility' section where you can filter who sees the banner. She says clicking for 'Recruiters Only' will heavily minimise your managers seeing your 'Open To Work' status.

"I will say that this isn't foolproof," she warned. "I know that if somebody is a LinkedIn recruiter at your company - they might see your account as open to work. I believe LinkedIn does what it can to try and avoid this, so take it with a pinch of salt."

However, some experts argue the Open To Work banner will actually hinder your chances of getting a new job as it makes you look desperate.

"There is a truism in recruiting that the best people are not looking for jobs." said Nolan Church, former Google recruiter and current CEO of salary data company FairComp.

How to improve your LinkedIn profile

1. Use a professional, high-quality headshot. Make sure you look approachable and confident
2. Create a compelling headline that goes beyond your job title. Highlight key skills, specialisations, or roles you are seeking
3. Write a clear, concise, and engaging summary for your about section. Highlight your key achievements, skills, career aspirations, and what you bring to potential employers. Use keywords relevant to your industry to improve searchability
4. Make sure your work experience is up to date, starting with your most recent
5. Request recommendations from former employers, colleagues, or clients. These testimonials add credibility and provide social proof of your skills and work ethic
6. Include your educational background, certifications, and any relevant coursework. Highlight honours or distinctions if applicable
7. Add professional certifications, licenses, or courses you've completed. LinkedIn allows you to link these certifications directly to your profile