Depending on the type of work you do, you may be working from home. You may be doing many video calls or presentations. What is the background in your home office area, and what does it say about you? Try this, stand, or sit opposite your camera’s point-of-view, do you like what you see?
8 Home Office tips for presenting yourself in the best light:
- Shut all doors behind you to avoid visual distractions.
- If there is a window behind you, add a window covering to minimize the glare and keep you out of the shadows. Keep in mind; you want the light to be on your face, not behind your face.
- Add a warm light in front of your face to remove any dark shadows on your face. Use a table lamp you already have at home, take the shade off, and give it a try.
- Raise the camera so that it is at eye level or slightly above so people are not staring up your nose. If you are using your computer, stack books, or a box to achieve the desired height.
- Look into the camera when you speak. Place a piece of bright sticky note next to your camera so your eye will go right to that spot.
- Keep your computer close if you use only the computer mic, if not use earbuds, headphones, or a wired microphone for clear sound quality, so you don’t sound like you are talking in a tunnel.
- Try to keep background noise to a minimum.
- Remove all clutter behind you, so it appears neat. You can download virtual backdrops; however, I recommend a curated background of your things that represent your interests.
How to create a put-together background:
If you have a bookcase behind you, is it cluttered and full of paper, books, and photos? Consider curating your look to maintain the look of your personality, and be purposeful, calm, and balanced. If people on the call see a cluttered or disheveled background, they may think you are. The Container Store offers storage boxes and holders for all your paperwork and small items that can work with any design aesthetic.
If you have a plain wall behind you, add a piece of artwork from another area of the home or a tapestry. If the room opens behind you, consider adding a colorful rug. Be mindful of any personal photos displayed. Plants are a fabulous option to add softness, life, and color to any area. Completely change the look of the wall space behind you using removable wallpaper, a fantastic choice for a rental property!
If you need help setting up your home office, picking the right paint color, artwork, or accessories, I can help! Give me a call at 610-955-8202; I look forward to helping you with your new professional style!
By Debbie Correale, Redesign Right, LLC. Connect on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Houzz, Pinterest. Feature photo licensed from Shutterstock.