To download any of these images, see TechRepublic’s article The best virtual backgrounds to use on Zoom for your next business meeting. Avoid selecting busy backgrounds it could be distracting.” Don’t use “a background with the prospective employer’s brand on it or futuristic, dystopian backgrounds that might produce negative or stressful emotions” Simple backgrounds, like those that have a single texture or color scheme, will help you stand out, and a color that contrasts with your skin tone so you don’t fade into the background.” Sanders added, “topical are a good way to show your personality. Select “backgrounds that replicate an office environment. Create your own branded virtual office background and look more.

“Using a virtual background is a surefire way to make the right first impression,” said Tim Sanders, vice president of customer insights at Upwork. VirtualOffice provides free branded zoom virtual backgrounds for Zoom video meetings. “While Zoom backgrounds can be a fun way to express your creativity and personality, a neutral background is actually best, since part of the reason we get Zoom fatigue is because our eyes have to take in so much detail, said Kristen Hayward, head of people at Superhuman. Here’s what a couple experts we spoke to said: New year, new job? Here are 16 appropriate virtual backgrounds to use for job interviews or onboarding.

Photos: 16 of the most appropriate virtual backgrounds for job interviews and onboarding

Office background image for zoom