When it comes to making a good impression in a job interview, professionalism still matters. Several career experts say that walking into an interview with an iced coffee in hand can send the wrong message to hiring managers.

Why an iced coffee may hurt your chances

Caitlin Wehniainen, a Florida‑based corporate recruiter with 16 years of experience hiring for Fortune 500 firms, sparked the conversation on TikTok. She explained that an iced coffee “looks like you went to Target, went to Starbucks, and now you’re stopping by your interview before moving on to the next thing.” In her view, the beverage makes the interview seem like just another errand on a busy day.

Wehniainen added that the sight of a wet cup dripping with condensation can appear “a little too casual” and suggests the candidate didn’t finish the drink before the interview began. She urges candidates to enjoy their coffee before the interview or wait until after the meeting.

Other perspectives on the coffee debate

Not everyone agrees that a coffee is a deal‑breaker. One recruiter who commented on the TikTok thread argued that arriving early with an iced coffee actually demonstrates good time management. Another respondent noted that if a company penalizes a candidate for a simple beverage, it may not be the kind of workplace the candidate wants to join.

Some observers point out that interview expectations can vary by industry and region. Diane Gottsman, a national etiquette expert and owner of the Protocol School of Texas, says candidates should “err on the side of caution” because “perception is everything.” She warns that an iced coffee can signal distraction, comfort, and casualness that may not align with a formal interview setting.

Practical etiquette tips

Gottsman and Wehniainen agree on several simple steps to avoid unprofessional impressions:

• Leave phones out of sight and refrain from texting during the interview.
• Avoid overpowering fragrances, sunglasses on the head, and chewing gum.
• If the interviewer offers coffee or water, accept the offered amount and do not request additional drinks.
• If you need water from a bottle, ask politely before taking a sip.

Both experts stress that interviews are a two‑way street. While employers evaluate candidates, applicants should also assess whether the company’s culture and expectations fit their own values and work style.

Bottom line for job seekers

In today’s competitive job market, small details can make a big difference. Presenting yourself as focused, respectful, and prepared—whether that means postponing your iced latte or using it as a post‑interview treat—helps convey the professionalism that hiring managers continue to value.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.