LinkedIn offers job seekers a variety of options when it comes to specifying location preferences for job searches. Here is an overview of the main job location filters and settings available on LinkedIn:
Location Filters
When searching for jobs on LinkedIn, you can filter by location to only see jobs in specific cities, states/provinces, countries, or a custom radius from a zip code. Here are the main location filters:
- City or Town – Search by city name (e.g. San Francisco, London)
- State/Province – Search by state or province (e.g. California, Ontario)
- Country – Search by country (e.g. United States, United Kingdom)
- Zip Code – Search within a custom radius (e.g. within 25 miles of 90210)
You can enter multiple locations to search across several cities, states, or countries at once. LinkedIn will then show jobs that match any of the location filters you specified.
Remote Jobs
LinkedIn also lets you specifically search for remote jobs using the “Remote” filter. This will show job listings that offer full-time remote work regardless of employer location. Some key things to know about remote job searching on LinkedIn:
- You can combine “Remote” with other filters like job title, company, or industry.
- The job description will specify if it is permanently remote or temporarily remote due to COVID-19.
- Some remote jobs still require you to live in/relocate to a certain country or region.
Location Preferences
In your LinkedIn Profile settings, you can set a preferred job location. This enables employers looking to hire in that area to discover your profile in searches. Things to know:
- You can enter a single location like “New York, NY” or “San Francisco Bay Area”.
- This location appears at the top of your profile – be sure it is accurate and consistent with the jobs you want.
- You can turn off this setting if you are open to jobs anywhere.
Applying to Jobs
When you apply for jobs on LinkedIn, you have the option to set your location preferences for that specific application. This indicates where you would be willing to relocate to or work remotely. Options include:
- Open to anywhere/remote
- Only in my current city
- Only in set metro areas
- Open to relocating to specified cities or regions
Be sure your preferences are clear for each application. You can also message the recruiter or hiring manager to discuss location flexibility.
Location Insights on Job Listings
When viewing a specific job listing, scroll down to the “Company Insights” section. Here you can see data on where people were hired for similar jobs at that company. This can provide useful insights on location patterns.
Location-Based Job Alerts
You can set up email job alerts that only show jobs in specific cities or regions. Steps:
- Go to Jobs > Job Alerts
- Click “Create a Job Alert”
- Enter your job search criteria including keyword, title, company etc.
- Under “Location” enter your desired city, state, or country.
- Click “Create Alert”
You will now only receive email notifications about relevant jobs in your desired locations.
Recruiters Searching by Location
Remember that recruiters and hiring managers can also search for candidates based on location. So even if you applied for a job that wasn’t location specific, they may filter candidates later. Having an accurate, consistent location on your profile is key.
Networking by Location
Your LinkedIn network and Feed are influenced by location – you will see more content from your geographic region. Use this to make local connections in your industry. You can also join LinkedIn Groups specific to your city or region to connect with more professionals in your area.
Following Companies by Location
Follow companies you are interested in working for to see their job postings. On a company’s LinkedIn page, scroll down to “Locations” to see where they have offices. You can follow companies headquartered in your target cities.
Ad Targeting by Location
LinkedIn uses your profile location to target relevant job ads to you. Keep your location updated to see jobs near you. You can also search and apply for jobs directly from some LinkedIn ads.
Salary Insights by Location
Salaries for the same job title can vary significantly depending on location. When researching salaries on LinkedIn, be sure to filter by location to see accurate income ranges.
Comparing Job Markets by Metro Area
LinkedIn provides data on job availability, salaries, and talent migration patterns for major metro areas. You can research and compare locations you are considering moving to.
Relocation Assistance
Some companies (especially larger corporations) offer relocation packages to help cover costs for candidates moving for work. Be sure to ask about relocation assistance when interviewing if you are open to moving.
Local vs Regional vs Global Roles
When talking to hiring managers, understand whether the role is specific to a location, covers a region, or is national/global in scope. This will help align expectations around travel and remote work flexibility.
Visa Sponsorship
If you need visa sponsorship to work in a certain country, be sure to filter job searches to “Visa sponsor” and clarify the company’s policy upfront when applying. Having legal authorization to work in a location is key.
Conclusion
LinkedIn provides abundant options for specifying and filtering by job location during searching, networking, and applying. Be strategic in using location to find the right job opportunities in places you want to live and work. Keep your profile location accurate and talk to hiring managers early about location requirements and flexibility to set proper expectations on both sides.
