Iced Coffee at Job Interviews Sparks Debate

A simple drink has sparked intense debate across TikTok, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms: Should job candidates bring iced coffee to interviews?

Background

The discussion began after recruiter Caitlin Wehniainen, with 16 years of experience with Fortune 500 companies, posted a TikTok video criticizing the practice. She noted that Gen Z candidates were arriving at interviews with iced coffee, suggesting it appeared as if the interview was merely one item on a list of daily errands.

Her remarks resonated with many, leading to thousands of responses from recruiters, career coaches, and job seekers. Opinions vary on whether carrying an iced coffee is unprofessional or harmless.

Understanding the Debate

At its core, the debate extends beyond coffee. It highlights a generational conflict over workplace norms and professionalism. Some recruiters think iced coffee can send unintended messages about a candidate’s seriousness. Many Gen Z workers, however, view these concerns as outdated, disconnected from job performance. Younger workers challenge corporate expectations on dress codes and etiquette, seeing the coffee debate as an extension of this challenge.

Recruiters’ Perspectives

Opinions vary among recruiters. Wehniainen’s position has garnered support from many hiring professionals, but others disagree. Eric Turney, president of the Monterey Company, argued the debate receives more attention than warranted. “If a candidate excels in an interview, I won’t reject them over a Starbucks cup,” he told Newsweek. However, he emphasized the importance of first impressions, advising that walking in with a coffee might seem casual to some hiring managers.

Angela Webber, president of MsAngie LLC, suggested the debate reveals how Gen Z was raised. “They were allowed to act freely, so bringing coffee to an interview seems normal,” she told Newsweek. Still, she believes qualifications should be prioritized over appearances.

Advice for Job Seekers

Candidates are generally advised to finish their drinks before entering the interview to avoid distractions. Brian Daniel, founder of the Celebrity PA Network, compared drinking coffee during an interview to eating a doughnut—it detracts from focus and manners.

However, blanket rules against beverages might be outdated, varying by company culture. Some might see caffeination as part of ‘hustle culture,’ but perceptions differ. Many recruiters emphasize that seemingly minor details can influence interviewer judgments.

Future Implications

The iced coffee debate is unlikely to transform hiring practices immediately, but it underscores the significance of some values held by hiring authorities. Candidates must decide whether to risk encountering a traditionalist manager or avoid potential scrutiny by leaving their coffee behind.

As Turney advises, candidates should not provide unnecessary reasons for interviewers to question their judgment. “You can have the iced coffee. Just finish it before entering,” he suggested.