Career experts caution against bringing iced coffee to job interviews
Recruiters and etiquette specialists say that carrying an iced coffee into an interview can appear casual and distract from professionalism, advising candidates to err on the side of caution.
Career and etiquette professionals warn that arriving at a job interview with an iced coffee may create a casual impression that could hurt a candidate’s chances. Caitlin Wehniainen, a corporate recruiter with 16 years of experience at Fortune 500 firms, said in a TikTok video that holding a coffee suggests the interview is just another errand in a busy day and looks “a little too casual.”
Wehniainen advised candidates to finish their drink before the interview or wait until after it ends, noting that a wet cup can be distracting. National etiquette expert Diane Gottsman echoed the advice, saying perception is crucial and that an iced coffee can signal distraction and excessive comfort. Gottsman recommended candidates avoid other potential distractions, such as phones, strong fragrances, sunglasses, and chewing gum.
Some respondents on social media argued that a coffee is a personal habit and that arriving on time with a drink demonstrates good time management. Others pointed out that expectations may vary by industry and company culture, and that candidates should assess whether a firm’s stance on such details aligns with their own preferences.
Both experts agreed that candidates should err on the side of caution, keep drinks discreet, and treat the interview as a two-way evaluation of fit.