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By Jennifer Fabiano-Ladders

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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