This guide includes a lot of common-sense advice, like good lighting, clear audio, and confident posture, that applies to anyone prepping for a video interview. However, it’s important to note that we specifically wrote this guide for transgender women, as they often face higher stakes and more personal challenges.
For many of us, getting ready for a video interview isn’t just about looking professional. It’s about managing dysphoria. It’s about gaining recognition and respect for our true selves. It’s about affirming our identity under the often critical eye of a hiring manager who might not understand our journey.
That’s why this article goes beyond basic style tips and into the realities of transgender life in professional spaces. We deserve to show up feeling confident, safe, and seen, not just prepared.
In the late 90s, I was recruiting engineers for automotive suppliers, coaching them to impress in stiff conference rooms with crisp resumes and confident handshakes. But times and technology have changed. These days, the hiring handshake is often a Zoom wave. While that might seem like a relief at first, for many transgender women, video interviews present new challenges: constant self-view, unfamiliar lighting, and the complex dance between professionalism and gender expression.
This guide is built from my experience, both as someone who helped others land careers and as a transgender woman who understands the nuances of visibility, dysphoria, and self-presentation. My goal isn’t to tell you how to pass. It’s to help you feel powerful, polished, and unmistakably you—even when framed by a webcam.
Step One: Frame Your Confidence, Not Just Your Face
Set your stage before you even choose what to wear. What shows up in that little Zoom box can amplify your best features or accidentally highlight every insecurity.
Most interviewers will only see you from mid-chest to the top of your head, so think of your webcam frame like a headshot. Good framing lets your wardrobe choices shine. Place your camera at eye level for flattering angles and better engagement. Lighting should come from in front of you rather than from overhead or behind. Natural light is ideal, but using a ring light can also produce excellent results.
Creating a calm, clean visual space gives you more control over how you’re perceived. Preparation can significantly reduce stress and maintain the focus on your skills and story.
Necklines: Femme-Affirming and Professional
Your neckline does more than complete an outfit; it helps express your gender while framing your face.
V-necks are a go-to for many of us. They elongate the neck, draw the eye up, and create a softer silhouette that often feels affirming and intentional. If a V-neck feels too revealing or you’re early in transition, you can layer it with a fitted tank underneath to control what you show.
Scoop necks and boatnecks offer gentle curves and clean lines, giving you both femininity and professionalism. On the other hand, high crew necks and turtlenecks can make your shoulders look broader and your jaw more pronounced on camera.
Remember: the best neckline is the one that lets you feel composed, confident, and fully yourself. That comfort will come through more clearly than any fashion choice.
Colors and Patterns: What Pops on Camera
Color and pattern can help set the tone of your interview, literally and visually. This is where personal style meets presentation strategy.
Mid-tone solids are your best bet. Think teal, plum, soft coral, or forest green. These colors tend to flatter a wide range of skin tones and don’t get washed out or overexposed on camera. Jewel tones also pop beautifully and can bring out warmth in your skin.
Busy prints and stripes can distort on camera, creating distracting moiré patterns. If you love prints, keep them big and low-contrast. The goal is for your interviewer to focus on you, not your outfit.
Choosing colors you love and feel great in? That’s not just style. That’s self-care.
Blazers, Cardigans, and Layers
Being professional does not have to imply a boxy or bland appearance. Layers let you express yourself while giving you structure.
A soft blazer in a feminine cut can sharpen your look without hardening it. Cardigans give warmth and softness without bulk. If you’re binding, layering helps with symmetry. If you’re padding, it smooths out proportions.
Avoid shoulder pads that are too structured—they might give off a masculine vibe unless intentionally styled. Instead, look for stretchy, breathable materials that move with you and don’t fight your body.
Having one go-to “interview layer” you love is a game-changer. Think of it like armor, not because you’re hiding, but because you’re stepping into battle for the life you want.
Hair, Wigs, and Headwear: Framing Your Face
Hair is part of your outfit. It frames your face, expresses your style, and (let’s be real) sometimes fuels our dysphoria.
Whether it’s your natural hair, a wig, or a scarf, what matters most is how it makes you feel. Pull it back slightly if it’s long, or pin it behind one ear to keep your face visible. Bangs can be adorable, but avoid letting them cast shadows over your eyes on camera.
If you wear a wig, make sure it’s secure and not overly shiny; some synthetic wigs can reflect light oddly. Matte styles work better in Zoom lighting.
If headwear is part of your culture, religion, or expression, wear it with pride. The key is balance; avoid anything too big or busy that pulls focus from your face.
Makeup: Optional, but Powerful
Makeup can be an empowering part of your preparation ritual, but it’s completely optional. You get to define your presentation.
If you do wear makeup, go for even skin tone, soft brows, a bit of mascara, and a lip shade that enhances your natural tone. Cameras exaggerate shimmer and shine, so stick to satin or matte finishes.
If you’re dealing with facial hair shadow, color correctors (usually peach or orange) under foundation can work wonders. YouTube has some great tutorials specifically for trans women; watch a few, then adapt to your style.
If makeup feels affirming, let it be your secret power. If it doesn’t, skip it. Confidence isn’t something you paint on; it’s something you build.
RELATED: Color Correcting 101: A Trans Woman’s Guide to Flawless Skin
Jewelry: Small Touches, Big Impact
Jewelry can be a quiet form of gender expression, and a powerful one.
Small earrings, a delicate necklace, or a subtle bracelet can be beautiful finishing touches. Just avoid anything noisy or sparkly that might become a distraction on camera.
If you’re still early in your transition and experimenting, choose pieces that feel natural. Gender expression evolves—and so can your accessories.
Limit your selection to a single statement piece. A bold necklace or standout earrings can work, but not both at once. Think clean, calm, and classy.
Gender Expression and Dysphoria: Dress for You, Not Just Them
This is the part no traditional interview guide will ever cover. But it might be the most important.
If dressing femme gives you joy, do it. If it feels scary or risky right now, take it slow. The goal isn’t to conform; it’s to affirm. Pick clothes that feel true to where you are today, not where you think you “should” be.
I’ve coached trans women who wore a blouse and lipstick to their interview and others who stuck with a clean button-down until they felt safer. Both choices were brave. Both women got the job.
Try everything on the night before. Practice your intro. Talk to yourself in the mirror. Smile at your reflection like she’s your best friend.
Because she is. And she’s got this.
Body Language and Posture: Sitting with Confidence
Your body speaks volumes, even through a webcam. Slouching, crossing your arms, or tensing your shoulders can read as uncertainty.
Sit upright with your feet planted. Let your shoulders relax down and back. Keep your hands visible in the frame to show you’re engaged.
If you tend to fidget (guilty!), keep a smooth stone or a stress ball just out of frame to help focus your energy. Small adjustments can make a big difference in how confident you feel and appear.
Handling Misgendering or Name Errors During Interviews
Unfortunately, mistakes happen. The key is to have a plan—one that prioritizes your comfort.
If you’re misgendered and feel safe correcting it, try, “Actually, I go by [name], and I use she/her pronouns.”
If you’re uncomfortable speaking up in the moment, feel free to follow up with an email later or simply ignore it. You are not required to educate anyone in an interview.
What matters most is how the interviewer responds. If they handle it respectfully, that’s a green flag. If not? That tells you everything.
Tech Tools for a Stronger Setup
You don’t need a full YouTuber rig, but a few tools can level up your presentation. The following are some of the top-rated Amazon items that can help you look and sound your best during a video interview. These recommendations are based on functionality, ease of use, and budget-friendliness.
Top Amazon Tech Picks
- Neewer Ring Light Kit: A soft, dimmable ring light perfect for flattering, even lighting on camera.
- Logitech C920x HD Pro Webcam: A top-rated external webcam known for crisp video and excellent auto-light adjustment.
- Blue Snowball iCE USB Mic: A plug-and-play microphone that drastically improves audio quality.
- UBeesize Tripod Stand: A flexible, adjustable tripod that can hold both phones and webcams for eye-level framing.
- MEE audio M6 Wired In-Ear Headphones: Discreet, comfortable in-ear monitors that reduce echo and preserve a polished look.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, TransVitae earns from qualifying purchases. These commissions help support our mission of creating inclusive, empowering content for the transgender community.
With just a few thoughtful upgrades, you can show up on screen not just as a candidate but as a confident, camera-ready version of yourself.
Managing Anxiety and Emotional Recovery After Interviews
Interviews are stressful. For trans folks, they can also bring up layers of vulnerability, dysphoria, or disappointment—even when things go well.
Before the call, take a few deep breaths. Stretch. Remind yourself why you’re qualified.
After the call, do something kind for yourself. Take a walk, call a friend, light a candle, or whatever makes you feel grounded. If the interview didn’t go well, it’s okay to grieve. Just don’t camp out there.
You showed up. That’s already brave.
Eye Contact Tips for the Camera-Shy
I’ll admit it: I struggle with eye contact, especially during video calls. If you do too, you’re not alone.
Looking into the webcam simulates eye contact, but it’s not easy for everyone. Try placing a small sticky note just above your camera with a smiley face or affirmation. It helps redirect your gaze without feeling forced.
And if you do look at the screen instead of the lens now and then? It’s human. Give yourself grace.
Beyond Style: Interview Prep Tips for a Smooth Zoom
One of the best things you can do for yourself before a video interview is run a full test of your setup, ideally with a trusted friend. I recently did this with someone close to me who had a giant opportunity on the horizon. We walked through every detail: lighting, camera height, mic clarity, outfit color, and even her posture. After a few rounds of trial and error, we got it just right. And yes, she nailed the interview and landed the job of her dreams.
It’s not just about gear. It’s about confidence. When you know your setup supports your presence, you can focus on telling your story instead of worrying about technical distractions.
Great outfits matter, but so does nailing the basics. The more you prep ahead, the less your brain has to juggle during the call.
Check your camera, mic, and internet connection in advance. Use a neutral or tidy background. Put your notes at eye level, just below the webcam.
Dress fully, not just from the waist up. If you need to stand up suddenly, you don’t want to reveal your pajama pants.
Make eye contact by looking into the webcam, not the screen. Smile when you speak. Keep your posture open, but not stiff.
If you’re voice training, remember to breathe and pace yourself. You don’t have to sound perfect, you just have to be heard.
Coming Out on the Call (Or Not): Your Choice
You don’t owe anyone your gender history. That includes interviewers.
If your name and voice don’t match your legal records yet, you can:
- Set your Zoom display name to your chosen name and pronouns
- Gently clarify during introductions if it feels safe: “I go by [name], and I use she/her pronouns.”
If it doesn’t feel safe or necessary, skip it. Focus on the job, your experience, and your goals.
The Bottom Line
Let me leave you with this: a job interview isn’t just about whether they like you. It’s about whether you can thrive there. If a company misgenders you, ignores your boundaries, or makes you feel unsafe, it’s not a failure. It’s a signal.
You’re not just seeking employment. You’re looking for dignity, growth, and space to be your full self. You deserve a workplace that sees you clearly, even through a webcam.
