Over the last couple of years as companies moved to remote work, we had to adapt to conducting meetings online or virtually. While we laugh at the videos circulating of men not wearing pants, kids crying in the background or pets walking across the screen, this is a reminder of the importance of looking professional on video calls.
Whether you’re on Zoom, Google Meet, Skype or Microsoft Teams, here are some tips on how to look your best during video meetings.
Daily Routine
Treat a work-from-home day as you would if you were going to the office. Maintain your daily grooming regime. If you don’t shower daily, at a minimum wash your face with a cleanser. If you have a 5 o’clock shadow, it’s time for a shave. Don’t forget to comb your hair and brush your teeth. Wear deodorant and spray on some fragrance. Yes, I know no one can smell you virtually but you will feel fresh and that’s what counts.
Appropriate Clothes
When you pick out your clothes, think about what colors look good on a screen. Bright, solid colours tend to pop the most, whereas patterns can be distracting and neutral shades can wash you out.
A collared shirt is a perfect way to maintain professionalism. You can also layer it with a sweater or cardigan as this will polish off your look while maintaining comfort. You can also opt to wearing a nice polo shirt.
You will know whether you need to take it up a notch and wear a shirt and tie or a suit jacket. Just remember who’s at the meeting and how you would dress if you were meeting with them face-to-face.
Background
Choose a designated work or meeting space that will provide comfort and control over how to look good on a video call. The background should enhance not detract from what you’re saying. A clean, neutral background will make sure all the focus remains on you. Simple props like plants or small pieces of art make for good accents.
Lighting is everything when it comes to looking good on a video meeting. Sit with your light source in front of you. If the light is behind you, you will be backlit and you will appear as a silhouette. Side lighting will also emphasize shadows and glares.
Setup
Set your laptop on a flat surface such as a desk or table to avoid any shaking, tilting, or sliding of the camera.
Laptop cameras are generally wide angle, which can distort your features if you stand too close. A good rule of thumb is to keep an arm’s length between you and the screen.
Aim to have your face centered in the screen so that all of your features are visible. Put the camera at eye level or slightly above to avoid creating a double chin effect or straight shot of your forehead.
There you have it. I hope you found these tips useful. If you need to spruce up your wardrobe for upcoming video meetings we’re here to help. You can choose a stylish dress shirt or polo shirt in our shop. And if you need to top up on grooming products such as a shaving soap or a fragrance you can browse our e-store.
Alla prossima – until next time. Arrivederci.
