4 Ways To Look Professional and Feel Comfortable in Virtual Meetings
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By the end of 2023, only 2% of business owners said they never plan on having employees back in person.
In the Spring of 2020, about 60% of all work was done remotely, and with back-to-office mandates, this number decreased to 25% in 2023.
We are expecting companies to have more hybrid models and, maybe with better tech, more remote work again in the future.
If you are someone who works remotely, we all have one thing to consider: Appearance. And you should focus on it.
A health clinic put it in the right terms: “When you look good and feel confident, you’re less preoccupied with self-doubt and insecurities. This newfound mental freedom can contribute to clearer thinking and better focus.”
When we head to an office, we might put some thought into what we wear. What about at home? We want to look good on Zoom and feel good about ourselves.
So, let’s get to the She’s A Given guide on how to feel professional yet remain comfortable at home.
At She’s A Given, we support local and sustainable fashion. If you are looking for a Goop aesthetic, there are more budget-friendly options online.
Why don’t you check out Etsy and buy from independent businesses in the US? There are fantastic, handmade items available that will add to your individual style.
We’ve compiled a few ways to help you feel comfortable and look professional in all your virtual meetings. Let’s get into it!
Virtual meetings are a new normal in our everyday work schedules, we are all fairly knowledgeable on the proper etiquette for virtual meetings.
We know to be on time, mute our microphones, etc., but sometimes may miss the mark on attire and other important professional elements.
WHAT TO KNOW: HIRING A VIRTUAL ASSISTANT
Lighting
We know good lighting isn’t really fashion, however, think of it as attire for your computer. Whether you have natural light in your office space or not, overhead lighting and direct light behind you can alter your appearance.
This is where a ring desk light becomes a game changer! You will shine and look your best, meeting all your virtual meeting objectives.
Amazon has great sets available at affordable price points. Our recommendation is to check out full-scale sets for actors that include a background screen, etc.
What’s good for self-taped auditions can also be suitable for business meetings.
For The Ladies
Business casual has become easy to achieve. Ladies, we can pair a plain t-shirt with jeans, leggings, or even joggers—whatever you are most comfortable in—because no one will see your lower half.
Then, depending on how formal the meeting you are attending is, you can dress your outfit up to fit your style.
Add a simple blazer; try a blazer in a soft, neutral color, or add a pop of color that compliments your skin tone.
If you have a more personal/low-key meeting, consider a denim jacket and some statement earrings! This will keep you comfortable and stylish.
You can keep undershirts simple or patterned. However, if you choose to wear a pattern, make sure it’s a larger print and not too busy—small prints can get pixelated over screens.
For The Guys
Guys, the same concept above applies to your virtual meeting style. Be comfortable in jeans or joggers, but add some professionalism to the top.
Polos are a great way to still look put together but without having to add a tie or suit jacket. Instead of a solid color polo, look for ones that will help you stand out in the gallery view of your video calls.
Try a pattern or colored strip along the armband or collar—this detail will give you dimension on the virtual screen. If you are aiming for a more casual look, you can even wear a collared sweater or sweatshirt.
Look for a classy style that has buttons or snaps along the front. Have fun with color and find what fits your personality!
For Everyone
In virtual meetings, we lose half of our body. If you are wearing a longer or flowy shirt, tuck it! Even if you typically don’t tuck your shirts in, do it just for your meeting.
This helps give you a silhouette and also keeps any fabric from bunching into your lap.
And, as simple as that, you will be ready to take on any meeting feeling confident and professional!
Reach out to us if you have more ideas how to look professional and comfortable for your online meetings.
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The most important thing to consider when getting ready for a virtual meeting is lighting. Good lighting can make a huge difference in how you appear on a video call. A ring desk light that attaches to your computer monitor or laptop can provide a lot of light and make sure you shine in your meeting.
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Business casual can be easy to achieve for both men and women. For men, try a polo or collared sweater or sweatshirt. For women, try pairing a plain t-shirt with jeans, leggings, or joggers. Accessorize with a blazer, denim jacket, and/or statement earrings. For both men and women, it also helps to tuck in any longer or flowy shirts to give a polished silhouette.
