This is what your Zoom background says about you

During the era of social distancing, ways in which we express ourselves have shifted from our outfits to our homemade meals, Instagram posts to TikTok videos, and showing off our new shoes to coworkers to showing off our new Zoom backgrounds while we continue to work from home.

Our coworkers are most likely judging us on the Zoom background we choose, just like this Twitter account that’s judging celebrities and news anchors on the background of their actual homes. Unsurprisingly, singer Alicia Keys’ background received one of the highest scores for its clean lighting, well-placed plants, and zen-like feel.

“It is key to show what makes you, you,” said Sallie Finney Kjos, interior designer and owner of GreyHunt Interiors. “We’re all learning to communicate and express ourselves in new ways, and showing your personality is a way to communicate who you are. Plus if you’re in a conversational pinch, it can be a great ice breaker.”

Check out what the Zoom background you choose says about you to your coworkers.

What your Zoom background says about you

1. The bright, tidy background

What this background looks like:

What this background says: “My room is probably a mess and I did not have the time to tidy up, but at least I had the decency to choose a nice, clean Zoom background.”

Those most likely to use this background: Those who live in a small apartment with limited workspace or those who can’t bring themselves to clean up.

When it comes to a video job interview,  Finney Kjos says that “simplicity is key!” For these situations, she recommends picking a strong color, like deep blue, that will add visual strength but not over power your face, as ultimately you want to be the star of this video call.

“It can also be nice to have a plant, or natural scene in the background for a calm setting,” Finney Kjos said.

2. The minimalist background

What this background looks like:

What this background says: “There isn’t much here, but this is much better than what I have going on behind me.”

Those most likely to use this background: The working mom or those who still can’t bring themselves to clean up their room. This is a great background for team meetings.

“If you aren’t loving your space right now, or your house is a mess, a fun interior design can make a great Zoom background,” Finney Kjos said. “Do be weary of anything that is too busy or distracting though.”

3. The bookshelf background

What this background looks like:

What this background says: “I want to look well-read, but I have a small apartment and all my books are under my bed.”

Those most likely to use this background: Those with small apartments or those who don’t have a great at-home office space.

4. The funny background

What this background looks like:

What this background says: “I feel comfortable enough to express my personality to you, and want to cheer you up during this stressful time.”

Those most likely to use this background: The office comedian or the funny boss.

“Having a piece of you, and of what you love, in your background is such a great way to express yourself,” Finney Kjos said. “I feel like people are being forced to learn to connect visually (and virtually), as we can no longer be physically out-and-about.”

5. The “at-home office” background

What this background looks like:

What this background says: “I really would like an at-home office that I could take this call from, but I don’t have space.”

Those most likely to use this background: Those who live in a tiny apartment or those who let their significant other use the at-home office to work in.

6. The “out in nature” background

What this background looks like:

What this background says: “I really miss being out in nature. Doesn’t it look nice out there?”

Those most likely to use this background: Someone who lives in an apartment and hasn’t actually been “out in nature” in two months.

7. The dining area background

What this background looks like:

What this background says: “I need to use a background because I don’t want you to see what’s actually behind me, but I don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard.”

Those most likely to use this background: Anyone who doesn’t want to look like they are trying too hard.

8. No background

What this background looks like: Your bedroom, living room, or study.

What this background says: “I’m comfortable enough with my team and workspace to not use a background,” or “I don’t know what a Zoom background is or how to create one.”

Those most likely to use this background: Those with a nice enough space to be presented on video calls or those who aren’t technologically advanced enough to know how to create one.