How do you dress for a video interview in a casual or creative field? (2024)

Solid colors are easier to see on camera than patterns, stripes, or prints. They also create a contrast with your background and make you stand out. Avoid wearing white, black, or bright colors that might wash you out or create glare. Opt for neutral or muted colors that complement your skin tone and hair color. You can also add a pop of color with a scarf, tie, or jewelry, but keep it simple and subtle.

Even though you are interviewing in a casual or creative field, you still want to dress for the job you want. Research the company culture and the dress code of the role you are applying for. You can also check the social media profiles of the hiring manager or the team you will be working with to get a sense of their style. Dress one notch above what you would wear on a typical workday, but don't go overboard. For example, if the company is casual, you can wear a nice shirt or blouse with jeans or khakis, but avoid t-shirts, hoodies, or sweatpants. If the company is creative, you can wear something more fun or quirky, but avoid anything too flashy, revealing, or inappropriate.

Your outfit should fit you well and make you feel comfortable and confident. Avoid anything too tight, loose, baggy, or wrinkled that might look sloppy or unflattering on camera. Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed, and in good condition. You also want to avoid anything that might make noise, such as jingly jewelry, buttons, or zippers. You don't want to distract the interviewer with unnecessary sounds or movements.

Your background and lighting can affect how you look on camera and how professional you appear. Choose a clean, clutter-free, and neutral background that doesn't have any personal or distracting items. You can also use a virtual background if your video platform allows it, but make sure it is appropriate and relevant to the job. Avoid sitting in front of a window, a bright light, or a dark wall that might create shadows or glare. Use natural or soft lighting that illuminates your face and makes you look warm and friendly.

Before your video interview, test your outfit and equipment to make sure everything works well and looks good. Try on your outfit and check how it looks on camera from different angles and distances. Adjust your camera position, height, and angle to make sure your face and upper body are visible and centered. Check your sound quality, internet connection, and battery life. Make sure you have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. You can also do a mock interview with a friend or a family member to get feedback and practice.

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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