When heading to a job interview, it’s common to bring items like your CV, portfolio, and a positive attitude. However, the debate has sparked over whether bringing an iced latte is acceptable after a job recruiter criticized Gen Z for showing up to interviews with coffee in hand in a now-viral TikTok video.
In the video, U.S. recruiter Caitlin Wehniainen expressed her opinion that bringing an iced beverage can give off a casual impression, implying that the interview is just another task on the agenda for the day.
The video has sparked a divide between generations and online communities, with some agreeing that bringing a beverage to an interview is unprofessional, while others defend the practice for personal comfort.
Arguments have surfaced regarding the deeper implications of the iced coffee debate, touching on how young adults navigate post-lockdown challenges, high youth unemployment rates, and AI’s impact on job prospects.
Gen Z, who largely prefer digital communication and face higher anxiety rates, has been under scrutiny for perceived soft skills deficiencies by some managers.
While the debate rages on, HR expert Allison Venditti suggests that most interviewees, regardless of generation, take the recruitment process seriously and come prepared.
Those advocating for a middle ground suggest that if bringing an iced beverage to an interview, it should be done discreetly to avoid potential mishaps and maintain professionalism.
Ultimately, the consensus leans towards refraining from bringing beverages like iced coffee to job interviews, as it may be perceived as unprofessional.
