What To Wear for a Zoom Interview? (And What Not + Outfit Tips)

Today’s interviews have drastically changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many companies now offer remote positions to prospective employees. With this in mind, it’s important to note that you won’t be meeting your colleagues in person. 

While only being seen from the waist up, it’s still important to dress to impress. 

Here’s everything you need to know about what to wear for a zoom interview: 

Your interview outfit becomes the first impression to an employer. 

Aside from your outfit, virtual backgrounds are needed to reflect professionalism. If your background is a mess, then your outfit won’t be the focus of a professional interview. 

Using a neutral background allows you to stand out against your background. For example, wearing light-colored clothes against a white wall will wash you out. 

Decorate your home office and background that is aesthetically pleasing. In addition, it should professionalize your space so that no unnecessary items can be seen when you place your camera. 

Prepare your interview outfit by wearing a similar outfit to what you’d be wearing in the office. The interviewer may not be able to see your entire outfit, but the top half could be the most important. 

Here’s a brief overview of what to wear for a zoom interview: 

• Business casual is always the safe option
• Be comfortable in your outfit
• Simple jewelry and accessories are acceptable 
• Remember always to wear pants 

Determining your outfit could be more stressful than the interview itself. Remember to dress as if you had an in-person interview. 

Show the interviewer that you want to make a good first impression. Assure your prospective employer that you are well-groomed and you care to put in the effort. 

What to wear to a zoom interview for females? This question has been asked for decades, and now with small webcams, women are subjected to wearing different clothes and significantly more makeup. 

Use the best lighting to avoid awkward blotches of light on your face. Lighting is important for women who opt to wear makeup during their zoom interview. Too dark lighting combined with darker makeup leads to shadows on your face. 

You always want the interviewer to be able to see you and your mannerisms. 

The answer is fairly simple if you’re wondering what to wear on a zoom interview for males. While opting for business casual is popular, men can wear a suit to an interview without thinking too much about it. 

A suit, button-down shirt, and tie can never be the wrong choice for a zoom interview. However, a more casual outfit would include black slacks and a solid collared button-down shirt. 

T-shirts are a no-go, depending on how you pair them. For example, you can pair a white T-shirt with a dark-colored blazer or a business coat. 

During an interview, men could wear a simple wrist watch without wearing too many distracting accessories on camera. 

Now that you know what to wear for a zoom interview let’s discuss what you shouldn’t wear. Regardless of formalities, there are a few do-nots regarding a zoom interview. 

• Avoid tank tops and camisoles 
• Clothes where your undergarments show 
• Skirts or dresses that are above your knee 
• Low necklines 
• See-through clothes 
• Stained clothes 
• Graphic designs on shirts or ties 
• Distracting makeup 

It’s important to remember what’s appropriate in all work environments. For example, working at home means that your outfit doesn’t matter most days. However, ensure that your interview outfit makes a great first impression. 

Researching your upcoming industry helps you gain confidence and comfortability in what you decide to wear. 

Bold and vibrant colors are distracting when you want an interviewer to focus on your words rather than your outfit.

The best color to wear for a zoom interview is neutral colors, including black, navy blue, tan, and gray. 

Here are a few tips to help you stand out during your zoom interview: 

Make sure your hair is well-groomed the morning of your interview. Men’s facial hair should be freshly trimmed. Women should keep their hair out of their faces. Ponytails, buns, and braids are elegant enough to keep your face clear. 

Sit up straight in your chair. Never slouch because it gives the impression that you’re not interested in what the interviewer says. Posture shows professionalism, so always sit up straight. 

Keep yourself organized at all times. For example, taking notes during an interview or needing to gather papers should reflect your organization. As a result, an interviewer will see that you have good habits and take your work seriously. 

Certain industries have dress code standards that new and veteran employees must follow. Research the industry you want to enter and get advice on their everyday outfit specifics. 

Offices of insurance or finance require corporate attire. 

Here’s what to wear for a zoom interview at a corporate office: 

• Pantsuit 
• Dress shirt 
• Midi-skirt 

Knowing this ahead of time allows you to pick out a wrinkle-free outfit to wear during your interview. 

It’s not uncommon for tech companies to issue a less formal dress code. 

Here’s what to wear for a zoom interview with a tech company: 

• Collared shit 
• Slacks 
• Blouse 
• Sweater 

A casual work environment means you don’t need to overdress for your interview. However, a casual outfit that doesn’t look leisurely comfortable is perfect for your upcoming interview. 

Knowing what to wear for a zoom interview can make you more nervous than knowing what to say to the interviewer. Finding the right attire helps you feel confident and comfortable speaking to a prospective employer. 

Finally, do a dress rehearsal and see if your chosen outfit looks best in front of the camera. Then, you’ll be ready to take on any interview and land the job of your dreams.