A wacky background might get a chuckle on Zoom or any other video call, but it’s not doing any favors for your first impression. In fact, most of the frame in a video call is all about your backdrop — not just your spiffy outfit or new haircut.
Paddy Ross from Durham University in the U.K. says, “Your background speaks volumes. Beyond how you present yourself, it’s also about what surrounds you.”
Ross and his team took 72 snaps of 36 folks, split evenly between men and women, showcasing their best grins or a poker face. These faces were then digitally placed onto six different settings: A cozy living room, the same room but blurred, a scholarly bookcase, plants neatly arranged, a plain ol’ wall, and — for some fun — that walrus scene.
Well, 167 participants then had to rate the trustworthiness and know-how of the people in these snapshots, ranking them from one (not so hot) to seven (super trustworthy and competent). It’s like real-life reality TV!
The verdict
Those framed by books or plants earned top marks. Meanwhile, our walrus pals and living room settings didn’t fare so well. Somewhere in the middle were the blurred room and basic wall.
Interestingly, ladies in the unblurred living room were seen as competent as if they were with the plants or books. Men? Not so much. Ross believes more digging is needed to unravel why gents might get the short end of the stick in certain setups.
Oh, and if you’re wondering whether to smile or stay serious, go with the grin. Gents and ladies who smiled seemed more competent and trustworthy. Probably because, as Ross suggests, it oozes self-assurance.
😀 So, next time you’re on cam, remember: Backdrop and big smiles, folks!
