Should I Dress Up When Working from Home by Myself?

Working from home has become a prevalent trend, especially with the increase in remote work policies. This raises the question: should I dress up for work when I'm alone in my home? This article explores the factors to consider when deciding on your attire, from company policies to privacy concerns, all while maintaining a balance between comfort and professionalism.

Understanding Company Policies

As a former employee, the camera policy at my workplace was to leave it off during regular Team/Zoom calls, except for calls involving senior leaders. However, there were times when clients initiated calls with their cameras on, and I had to quickly switch mine on. This was a part of my professional attire, which included grooming and appropriate business attire.

The legal standpoint regarding camera policies is still evolving. Privacy laws and workplace regulations have not yet resolved the issue of full-body views or periodic room sweeps. Instinctively, I believe that courts might enforce tighter policies, requiring a strong view of the head, face, and upper body to maintain professionalism and accountability.

Ensuring Professionalism from Head to Toe

My advice has always been to dress for work, covering the upper body, maintaining neat hair, and ensuring a professional background. When working in a common area, the risk of showing inappropriate attire is real. Consider the commercial where the camera catches the worker in boxer shorts; this scene is a reminder to cover yourself entirely.

Even if you're alone, assume that the CEO or crucial clients could see more than you intend. This foresight can help you maintain a high standard of professionalism. Admittance of your potentially improper attire could lead to more policies and bring back the days of in-person office work due to a lack of control.

Thoughts on Artificial Backgrounds

While some workplaces allow artificial backgrounds, their use should be carefully monitored. My company once considered this and decided against it, emphasizing great discretion. A senior VP expressed concern, noting that a simple backdrop could hide unease or dishonesty.

Of course, you can't be fired for something that isn't visibly monitored, but the debate over such backgrounds could lead to further restrictions. If you have micromanaging superiors, the use of artificial backgrounds might lead to a return to the physical office, as they seek to maintain control over their employees.

Conclusion

Dressing professionally when working from home, even when alone, is crucial for maintaining a professional image and ensuring compliance with workplace policies. Whether it's privacy concerns, company policies, or the potential use of artificial backgrounds, understanding these factors can help you maintain a balance between comfort and professionalism in your remote work environment.