Iced coffee at a job interview sparks generational row online
A 16-year recruiting veteran's claim that showing up with iced coffee signals you're not serious has divided generations online.
TikTok recruiter Caitlin Wehniainen posted a video saying that bringing an iced coffee or latte to a job interview suggests the appointment is just another errand. Caitlin Wehniainen's comment that it looks too casual sparked huge backlash, especially from younger users who called the viewpoint outdated.
Gen Xers largely sided with Wehniainen, saying applicants should wait until they're hired to enjoy the coffee. Even Starbucks jumped in with a cheeky Instagram post, while The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf countered by saying they would hire someone on the spot for bringing one.
Wehniainen later clarified she was surprised by how polarising the topic became. She said her original message was taken out of context.
She now suggests bottled water is fine to bring instead.
- September 16
- Posted date
- @caitlinrecruiter
- Creator handle
- 16 years
- Recruiting experience
- Just over 1000
- TikTok followers
Why it mattersJob interview norms are shifting. What one generation sees as unprofessional, another sees as normal. Knowing where employers stand matters when you're applying for work.
AustraliaAs Australian youth face tougher job market conditions, small details like what you carry to an interview can feel make-or-break, even though opinions on them are sharply divided.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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