Experts Warn Iced Coffee Can Hurt Job Interviews as 17,000-Like TikTok Debate Spreads
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 23
Experts Warn Iced Coffee Can Hurt Job Interviews as 17,000-Like TikTok Debate Spreads
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 23
Summary
Etiquette and recruiting experts say bringing iced coffee into a job interview can damage first impressions by signaling distraction, casualness or that the meeting is just another errand.
A TikTok from recruiter Caitlin Wehniainen — who has 16 years recruiting for Fortune 500 companies — ignited the debate, arguing an iced latte makes candidates look underprepared and too relaxed.
The backlash was mixed: some users called a dripping, rattling cup unprofessional, while others said an interview is only a 30-minute stop in a busy day and punctuality matters more.
Diane Gottsman of the Protocol School of Texas urged candidates to err on the side of caution, adding that phones, gum, sunglasses and strong fragrances can create similar distractions.
The dispute reflects wider tension over workplace professionalism, with Gottsman noting interviews are a two-way evaluation and candidates should also judge whether a company's culture fits them.