Setting vs clothing: power on Zoom

We all know that people make snap judgments about how seriously they should take us based on what we wear. And now our setting matters too. So this week I explore how we show up on Zoom.

Personal brand consultant Ilka Dunn coaches Adam Znaidi (our editor) and I through how to instantly improve our authority on web calls—using just a few accessories.

Here’s to rocking your lockdown wardrobe (the top half anyway ).

-Christine x

Common Codes of Authority (not rules!)

Setting

• Tidy environment = organised mind

• Books (selective w larger visible titles!)

• (Healthy) plants suggest life

• Texture is interesting

• Check the lighting

• Waterglass, notebook, and pens at the ready = prepared

• ❌ crowded or claustrophobic

• ❌ distractions or messages that don't convey “a professional at home”

Women

• Jacket

• Earrings, Necklace

• Collar, Avoid low cut to tops

• Scarf (not too floppy) or brooch

• Colour pops

• Lipstick, coloured lip balm

• Managed hair, maybe tied back (try not to look like you skipped the shower)

• Minimal makeup eg foundation, under-eye concealer to look alert

Men

• Collared shirt

• Jacket

• Pressed T-shirt

• Tie (soft and loosely worn so that it’s convincing even for the home office) = very formal on Zoom but necessary in some jobs where you need to convey trustworthiness (as an estate agent for example)

• Clean shaven or ‘intentional’ stubble

• Hair not too grown out (the lockdown look)

• Colours that suit you