Even though working from home has many perks and benefits, it’s not all fun and games. While many were happy to accept this opportunity thinking they will at least save some time on the commute and getting ready, looking disheveled is still not an option. If you’re participating in conference calls, you want to look professional and neat, but you still don’t want to waste time applying several layers of makeup and other beauty products, do you? We’ve made a list of essentials for looking your best in video conference calls during the quarantine.
Nice hair
While everyone understands that you’re working from home and can’t go to a hair salon at the moment, it doesn’t mean that you should join a video call with so-called “bed head” hairstyle. While it doesn’t have to be clean and perfectly styled, your hair should be kept away from your face so that people you are talking to can see you clearly. A ponytail or a braid is always a good choice, as is a simple bun. Because these are special circumstances, you might even get away with a messy bun, but if it’s an important call with your superiors, you should make it look less messy. Flyaway strands of hair are clearly visible, so use hairspray or dry shampoo to keep them in check.
Professional clothes
Everyone knows the old trick for video interviews: pants are optional, but a shirt is mandatory. You don’t have to put on a freshly ironed shirt and a jacket, but a nice sweater will look great. What is more, changing into more professional clothes will also help change your mindset and get you into “work mode” easily. Wear a shirt or a sweater that you would usually wear to the office because it gives the impression that you’re actually getting some work done and not just staying in bed all day. Cleavage is a big “no” in everyone’s book, so a turtleneck is a safe choice. Blouses and sweaters are also nice, as are cardigans and button-down shirts.
A bit of makeup
Despite the fact that your coworkers aren’t actually going to see you in person, you shouldn’t join a video call when you’re freshly out of the shower. Your eyes are going to stand out on camera, so make sure to cover up imperfections such as dark circles, puffiness, and crow’s feet. While dramatic red lips and smokey eye look with false lashes is way too much, a touch of concealer, a bit of organic vegan mascara, and some lip gloss will make you look wide awake and fresh. You might even add some false lashes if you’d like, but don’t go over the top and apply a full-face makeup because it’s not necessary.
A tripod
The Pocket Tripod is perfect if you don’t want to take the call from your bed or let everyone see your collection of fridge magnets. You should make sure the camera faces a blank wall, but you can add a plant or a stack of books in the background. Try to keep your pets away while the video call is on, and place your camera so that it at eye level. If you’re using your laptop, place it on a stack of books, and if you’re using your phone, don’t hold it in your hand. Use a tripod because it’s sturdy and reliable and place it so that your face and shoulders are nicely framed, and if you’re still in your bed, move the pillows away and place your back against the wall because it looks more professional.
Fuzzy socks and slippers
Video conference calls can be stressful, and getting ready in a hurry adds another layer of stress to the already big pile we are all facing. Being comfortable should be one of your priorities, and while wearing a nice shirt is a must, there’s not a rule that says you can’t wear your favorite slippers, fuzzy socks, or comfy sweatpants. It’s important to emphasize that you shouldn’t show these on camera because it will make you appear unprofessional, but you should wear something. Doing a video call in your undies is a bad move because if something happens and you have to stand up, you don’t want to show too much to your boss and coworkers.
The best thing about video calls is that you don’t have to put in as much effort as you would if you had an in-person meeting with your bosses and coworkers. While at first you might find it difficult to adjust to this new situation, after a bit of practice, you will soon learn what it takes to get the best results without feeling drained. Luckily, you can easily look your best with a bit of effort and a couple of useful tricks.
