Remember a few years ago when COVID-19 hit? You’re welcome for bringing up those memories… Anyway, during a time when we were all scrambling to adapt to a new way of life, we had to make a lot of personal and professional changes. In the professional world, working from home meant having to master the video conference. And, oh, how there was trial and error.

Did you ever find yourself unmuted when you most definitely should have been muted? Or maybe you were muted the entire time you were giving a really good spiel. Or maybe your camera should have been turned off the moment your cat jumped onto your desk (down, Snowball!).

These are all things we’ve learned to master over the past several years (well, most of us have). But, as we’ve grown comfortable – or perhaps too comfortable – with videoconferencing and working from home, maybe it’s time we brush up on some best practices. We’ll discuss ways to be at your best when videoconferencing, along with assembling a wardrobe that can accommodate the new norm for many of us – the hybrid work model. After all, you can’t get away with the ol’ wardrobe mullet (business on the top, party on the bottom) in the office. So, put those pants back on and let’s get started.

While working remotely, making a good impression is still important, even if everyone understands the challenges and peculiarities of working from home. Although you can get away with sweatpants or pajamas when clocking in (we like to think of this as easing into your day), by the time meetings start to roll around, it’s important to present a more professional look. This can be a little tougher at home, especially because of factors like lighting, video quality, and backdrop. Here’s a brief refresher on videoconferencing best practices:

Don’t Forget About the Lighting

Good lighting is the foundation for looking your best on a video call. While natural light is key for productivity, it’s also a flattering look for big meetings or interviews. Facing a window is your best option for natural lighting, allowing the daylight to give you a warm glow. If your screen seems a little too dark doing this, remember that you can easily adjust the brightness level. Try to avoid sitting with a window directly behind you, or your dark silhouette will have you mistaken for an anonymous witness. If natural light isn’t an option for you, try positioning a lamp (with a lampshade) in front of you. Be sure the light isn’t too warm or cold so colors aren’t distorted.

Check the Quality of Your Video & Background

If you’re in a video conference, nothing looks better than a crisp, clear video feed. It also makes your interactions seem a little more personable, without the constant pixelated reminder that you’re looking into a screen. If your camera isn’t doing you justice, consider replacing it! If buying or having your company provide a new computer isn’t an option, there’s always the option of picking up an affordable, high-quality external camera instead. 

Unlike video quality, your background can be changed instantly. Believe it or not, your best practice for video conference backgrounds is to have something plain Jane (no offense to any Janes reading this). After all, you want to be the star of the show! Don’t let people get distracted by your cluttered shelf, adorable sleeping pets, or elaborate artwork. Instead, find a bare wall that can serve as your background, or simply use a background blur or virtual background – readily available on Zoom, Google Meet, or any other video call platforms. But, be careful! Using a wild virtual background can be just as distracting as anything else.

Dress for (Virtual and In-person) Success

In-person meetings or interviews generally have a different set of fashion rules than virtual ones. Bold or flashy outfits can be dazzling in real life, but in videoconferences, they often just serve as a distraction. While people can shift their attention around a physical meeting room, distracting colors, accessories, and patterns can become amplified in an online setting. Let your talent shine through and opt for simple but classy outfits. Of course, the focus should be on choosing the right tops, but if you want to get into a professional state of mind by wearing dressy pants or a skirt, go for it! 

When it comes to video conference fashion, there’s a great rule of thumb: Wear what you normally would to an in-person interview or meeting, with a few exceptions:

What to avoid:

• Extremely bright colors
• Stripes, plaid and checks
• Tops that are too tight or loose in their fit

Remember to double-check your look on screen before the meeting, as well. Your face, hair, or clothing might come off differently on camera, so be sure that everything looks neat and professional before joining the meeting.

What About In-office Comfort?

If you’re back to the office in some capacity, you’ve probably developed a stance on how you feel about it. And, no matter how you’re feeling, you shouldn’t be concerned about a lack of comfort! If you’re bummed out about having to wear your work clothes all day, then we have some news for you – you need new work clothes!

You don’t have to be uncomfortable to look professional. Find yourself clothes that have a work-appropriate look without being a pain to wear. Cozy sweaters, soft cardigans, stretchy leggings, flowing dresses, and button-up shirts will all do the trick, with all the comfort and professionalism you need to bring out your best. You’ll feel so good at the office, you might even stop missing your pets at home.

Find It at Turn Style!

If you don’t have enough comfortable work clothes, we have good news: Turn Style has it all! And let’s be honest, when it comes to amazing clothes – especially ones that make you excited to go into the office – there is no such thing as “enough.”