Is it unprofessional to bring iced coffee to a job interview?

Opinions are divided. Some hiring managers and recruiters say bringing an iced coffee to an interview signals a lack of preparation or reads as too casual. Others argue that a drink shouldn't factor into hiring decisions at all, and that what matters is whether a candidate is prepared, present, and respectful of the interviewer's time.

Why did the iced coffee interview debate go viral?

The debate started after a recruiter posted a TikTok criticizing Gen-Z job candidates for showing up to interviews with iced coffee, saying it makes the interview look like "just a stop on your list of errands." The video sparked widespread reaction, with some agreeing and others pushing back.

What are the etiquette rules if you do bring a drink to an interview?

Common advice includes: hold the cup in your non-dominant hand so your right hand stays dry for a handshake, avoid rattling the ice or slurping loudly, don't set the cup on the interviewer's desk, and remember to take it with you when you leave.

Does bringing coffee to an interview actually affect whether you get hired?

Most career experts say no—hiring decisions come down to qualifications, preparation, and how a candidate presents themselves overall, not their beverage choice. However, some note that the drink can still affect first impressions, especially in more formal or traditional workplace cultures.

Is the coffee debate really about something bigger than coffee?

Some commentators, including TikTok user @anacmichelle1, argue the debate reveals deeper double standards around who is given the benefit of the doubt at work.

Is Iced Coffee at Job Interviews Unprofessional?

The Monday Manual in collaboration with Airalo.

Victoria here, Girlboss’ executive editor. 👋

I’ve written about a lot of hot work debates during my time at Girlboss: Do cover letters still matter? Should you make friends at work? Are handwritten thank-you notes a must? But this latest internet firestorm takes the cake… errr, cup? 🧋

Let's just say that people have very strong opinions about what beverage you should (and shouldn't) be holding when you walk into your next job interview. I break it all down below. 👇

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Is Bringing Coffee to a Job Interview Actually Unprofessional?

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