And the woman in front of the bookshelf was seen as most professional. The woman in front of the indoor plants was rated as most intelligent, most approachable and most trustworthy.

Though this could potentially have to do with a number of variables – glasses, clothing, facial expression – it was an interesting result regardless. In contrast to typical gender stereotypes in the workplace, our female model scored the highest ratings in all four categories: most approachable, most intelligent, most trustworthy, and most professional. After being collected, the ratings were then weighted so both male and female models were equal. The A/B tests, also known as split tests, were randomized, with each of our 1,507 respondents being shown one of the photos below.Īfter being shown a photo, participants were asked to rate the model in the foreground on the four above-mentioned traits. Which background was perceived as best in these four categories?Įach photo featured the same model – one male and one female – in the same pose. We surveyed over 1,500 Americans to determine if different photos had any influence on one's perceived intelligence, approachability, trustworthiness, and professionalism.

We became curious whether the photo someone put as their Zoom background had any effect on how others in the call perceived that person. This way, people can hide distracting items in the background of the frame in order to prevent sidetracking co-workers from the work at hand. Thankfully, Zoom has created an option that allows users to add a background photo to their video call.

There may be toys strewn on the ground, unfolded laundry on the couch, or toddlers flinging food. So how does one maintain the professional atmosphere of the office while working from home? Many individuals may have children at home. Most work meetings are now being conducted on video call sites, such as Zoom, while employees adhere to safety regulations. With almost half of Americans working from home since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses are having to find new ways to hold conferences with their employees.

Zoom background photo