Video Calls Backgrounds
At the start of the pandemic, I was WFH. In April I was furloughed and last week let go due to COVID. The backdrop in my home office for video calls happens to be our liquor collection. I never had any issue with this at work or on networking type calls as my audience was people I know who wouldn't judge me for the background.
I started contemplating purchasing a green screen background for Zoom calls post furlough (mostly so I could effectively use the custom backgrounds). However, not all web calls use Zoom, so I need to be able to have a neutral background regardless of video conferencing software.
I recently saw someone using one of those room screen dividers, which I thought could be practical. Any other suggestions or ideas?
Yes, there are other areas in the house that I could use for interviews, but they are not always convenient/conducive for video calls (ie lighting, potential for distractions, etc.). Plus, those are just workable for the one off calls. When I start a new job, I'm likely going to want the neutral background for awhile. Moving to another workspace for calls won't always be feasible.
Hertha M,
DEI researcher
45
06/17/20 at 11:54PM UTC
There are companies that sell vinyl backgrounds that can be hung behind you, and look like a brick wall or something similar.
But the easiest thing is often to just move your computer to an area where there's just a wall or something more "typical" behind you.
Judy Block
12
06/17/20 at 2:59PM UTC
Not sure how old your computer is but if you are able to add a virtual background on zoom there any many free ones to download and add. If you computer is too old - I have had colleagues put up their own makeshift "green screen" with a green tablecloth (bought at dollar store) or a green sheet. Personally I think a portable green screen would be a good investment these days and virtual backgrounds also make some good conversation starters.
Anonymous
06/17/20 at 5:21PM UTC
Not all of my calls are on Zoom with the virtual background capability. But I'm inspired to know that green tablecloth or sheet works well. I'll have to give that a try too, though I'm not quite sure how I will be able to pin it up. Thanks!
Anna C AdamsCertified Training Specialist
525
06/16/20 at 7:39PM UTC
I think you should work out a new physical background. Just my opinion.
I work in the wine & spirits industry and in my background you can see my piano, and a shelf that has cookbooks, cookie tins, and a few bottles of liquor - and that's fine for my environment. But, if I were interviewing for a new job and/or starting a new job, I would probably remove the liquor bottles.
I'm also of the belief that it's a good thing to let some of your personality shine in the background.
NeerajaHR Manager in Sunny Sacramento!
126
06/18/20 at 2:23PM UTC
I love the idea of having some of your personality shine through in the background! It's so true, learning a little bit more about someone can be such a great ice breaker!
Anonymous
06/17/20 at 5:20PM UTC
Prior to your comment, I had considered moving things out of the background, but it seemed like it would be more cumbersome. However, you sparked a realization that not all of the shelves are visible in the background. And not all of them have liquor on them. I just need to re-arrange the shelves so that the ones that appear in the background are liquor free! Thank you for the inspiration!
