A common drink has sparked a heated debate across social media platforms like TikTok and LinkedIn: Is it appropriate for candidates to bring iced coffee to a job interview?
The discussion began when recruiter Caitlin Wehniainen, who claims 16 years of experience with Fortune 500 companies, posted a TikTok video criticizing this practice. “Gen Z candidates are showing up to their interviews with iced coffee in hand,” Wehniainen mentioned in her video, suggesting it indicates the interview is merely one errand among many.
Her comments struck a chord, eliciting thousands of responses from recruiters, career coaches, and job seekers. Opinions are divided over whether carrying a cold brew is unprofessional or harmless.
Why The Debate Matters
This discussion extends beyond coffee. It highlights a generational clash regarding workplace norms and professionalism. Some recruiters argue that iced coffee might convey a lack of seriousness. Conversely, many Gen Z workers see such concerns as outdated and irrelevant to job performance.
Today’s younger workforce increasingly challenges traditional corporate expectations, like dress codes and etiquette. This debate is a continuation of shifting norms.
Key Points in the Controversy
It began after Wehniainen observed Gen Z candidates arriving at interviews with iced coffees or lattes. From a recruiter’s perspective, this could appear overly casual.
The video gained traction, resulting in thousands of comments. Some supporters argue candidates should avoid food or drinks during interviews, as first impressions are crucial. Practical concerns like condensation or the logistics of shaking hands with a drink were raised.
Others were confused by the suggestion that a beverage could determine professionalism, with one TikTok commenter stating, “But an interview IS just a stop in my day. It’s not my whole day.”
Recruiters Are Divided
Wehniainen received support from many within the hiring profession. Yet, Eric Turney of the Monterey Company commented that the iced coffee debate may be drawing too much attention.
“If someone walks into an interview with an iced coffee and excels, I won’t reject them based on a Starbucks cup,” he said, emphasizing that interviews are brief and every detail matters. “There’s little advantage in risking a casual impression.”
Angela Webber, president of MsAngie LLC, highlighted how Gen Z was raised more permissively, reflecting their comfort with bringing iced coffee. “They are the future generation, brilliant and talented. Coffee shouldn’t be a barrier to great potential,” she remarked.
Advice for Job Seekers
Generally, candidates are advised to finish their beverage before the interview to avoid distractions. Brian Daniel from Celebrity PA Network described bringing iced coffee as a breach of unwritten rules, likening it to inappropriate eating during interviews.
However, blanket rules about beverages may be outdated; some companies may react differently to this behavior.
Many recruiters assert candidates should understand details can affect perceptions during hiring. “The defense of coffee is more intriguing than the coffee itself,” Turney commented, noting younger individuals question its relevance to job competence.
Future Implications
The iced coffee debacle might not immediately alter hiring practices, but it emphasizes certain hiring values job seekers should be aware of. Candidates now face a decision: bring the coffee and potentially face scrutiny, or leave it behind and minimize attention to such details.
“As a hiring manager, I prioritize punctuality, preparation, communication, and role understanding,” Turney noted. “Candidates should avoid giving interviewers reasons to doubt their judgment. Enjoy the coffee, but finish it before entering.”
For input on this story, contact Newsweek editors Jason Lemon and Shakeema Edwards.