Dressing for an interview can be stressful, no matter what format it is in. Having an interview in a new setting makes things even more confusing. Even if this isn’t your first time having a Zoom interview, there are certainly still a few questions to be answered when it comes to how to dress for an interview over Zoom. Find the answers to all of your questions regarding Zoom interview attire below!
Zoom Interview Attire - How Should I Dress for a Video Interview?
When you plan your outfit for a zoom interview you should expect to dress the same as you would for a normal interview. Many hiring managers use Zoom interviews interchangeably with in-person interviews, meaning that they have the same standards and expectations for both types of interviews.
Here are 3 key rules to remember:
Rule 1: What you wear impacts your confidence
So, wear pants and shoes! Even though the interviewer probably won’t see your lower half it’s important that you dress the part so you feel completely confident and focused. Countless studies show that what you wear affects how you work.
Rule 2: Understand the Culture
Before anything else, it’s important to understand the company culture as you decide what to wear. A start-up will have a different culture than an established business. Certain industries can have very different dress standards. Be sure to do your research to understand what kind of outfit will fit with the company culture.
Rule 3: It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed
Once you understand the culture, the next key is to understand that you should always try to dress nicer than your interviewer. Your goal in an interview is to impress your interviewer.
One way to impress them is by showing your interest in the job by dressing up for the interview. This does not mean that you should show up in a wedding tuxedo or evening gown.
Instead, just dress one notch nicer than your interviewer. If your interviewer is in a T-shirt, then show up wearing a button-up or sweater. If they are wearing a button-up or blouse, then dress in a button-up/blouse and a suit jacket/blazer.
As a general guideline when going to pick items for an interview, it’s best to stick with a professional version of the following:
- Button-Up Shirt
- Blouse
- Blazer
- Suit Jacket
- Sweater
- Slacks
- Dress Pants
- Skirt
When selecting an item to wear for an interview, ensure that you can feel comfortable in it. As was mentioned before, everything you wear in an interview can affect your level of confidence. If the material you wear is uncomfortable, itchy, makes you sweat, or feels inappropriate for an interview then you won’t be able to focus on the most important things. Be sure to be comfortable so that you can be confident and focused!
What Color Is Best For A Zoom Interview?
Believe it or not, there is actually some strategy when it comes to your interview outfit color choice. When picking a color for your Zoom interview outfit, be sure to first identify where you will do the interview. You need to know the color of the wall so that your outfit doesn’t clash or look too similar to the background, making you look like a floating head.
Here are the best colors for a Zoom Interview: Black, White Gray, Blue, Tan, Brown
All of these colors are relatively neutral, making them ideal for an interview where your personality needs to be the focus. Try to avoid bright colors when possible. It’s always best to play it safe when you are in an interview environment since you never know the fashion preferences of your interviewer.
What Should You Not Wear To A Zoom Meeting Or Interview?
- Stripes – They do not show up well on camera and can become a distraction
- Distracting patterns or colors – They shift the focus from you to your clothing, which isn’t what will get you a job!
- Anything that will make noises (like bangle bracelets) and distract from what you’re saying
- Colors that blend in with your wall or background – You never want to look like a floating head
- Items with wrinkles or stains – This should be a no-brainer as they show inattentiveness to detail
- Articles that fit poorly – Wearing something too baggy or too tight has the potential of looking unprofessional
Final Thoughts on Zoom Interview Attire
Don’t forget the 3 keys when preparing for a Zoom interview – what you wear impacts your confidence, understand the culture, and it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. With these rules in your back pocket, you can’t go wrong!
You’re now set to nail your Zoom interview! Best of luck!
