Get Ready for Your Close-Up

Put your best face forward when videoconferencing

Fashion can be a great form of expression — a way to set yourself out from the pack. But how can you do that in an office or even online? That can be a difficult question for many.

If you are in a setting where a suit is required, it can be difficult to stand out and show your personality.

Going through your closet is a good start. Find pieces that make you feel great and incorporate them to dress your suit up with some unique personality, whether it’s a broach, your favorite shirt or a great belt. Also play with necklines. A great scarf or statement necklace is an eye-catching and sophisticated way to add pops of color and style. There are also great ringer tees or blouses with ties or bows that look fantastic under a blazer.

Online or virtual media is quickly becoming more prevalent in the corporate world. That is presenting many different scenarios for people to be in front of a camera. There are some easy tips to help make you look like a pro on the screen.

• Make sure you background is clean, uncluttered and well lit.
• Try not to show too much skin other than your face. You want the focus to be on you and the message you are conveying.
• Tops with small prints or solid colors are best on video. You never want what you are wearing to compete with you or your background.
• If you want to add some dimension to your look, think about layering with a vest or a lightweight jacket or blazer. Layering is a quick and easy way to dress up your look and add interest to an outfit.
• As tempting as it is, don’t wear hats or anything that could distract from your face and your eye contact. Hats can be easy and fun during the summer months, but on video they compete and distract from your most important professional asset — your intellectual contribution to the meeting.