BBC AntiSocial
Breaking the ice on iced coffee with Adam Fleming
"People who don't understand how they are perceived in the workplace don't get promoted."
A recent episode of BBC AntiSocial explored a surprisingly contentious question: Is it unprofessional to take an iced coffee into a job interview?
Dubbed as "the new avocado on toast", the iced coffee became a symbol of a wider debate about changing workplace norms. Is bringing a takeaway drink to an interview a harmless reflection of modern working culture, or does it distract from making a strong first impression?
While expectations are evolving in an era of hybrid working and more relaxed dress codes, recruiters on the programme suggested it's best not to let anything detract from your interview performance.
Their advice?
-
Stick to a bottle of water if needed. Most employers will offer you a drink.
-
Keep your hands free when arriving, ready to greet interviewers confidently.
-
Avoid distractions that could draw attention away from your skills and experience.
The programme also highlighted some common interview mistakes:
-
Wearing clothing that is too casual for the setting.
-
Arriving with wet hair, which can suggest a lack of preparation.
The lesson from the iced coffee debate isn't really about coffee at all. It's about demonstrating self-awareness and understanding how your actions are perceived. First impressions still matter, and the small details can influence the overall picture you create.
Listen to the BBC episode here
£1,000 raised!
Bath Half Marathon
Congratulations to Kevin who completed his half-marathon and raised £1000 for 1st Impressions -much needed funds to help us continue to support women across the South West.
Retirement Gift Donated to 1st Impressions
Joanna Aspin retired from the University of Bath and kindly organised her gift to be a collection for 1st Impressions:
"As I approached my retirement I began to think about how I would prefer not to have a retirement gift but that any collection from my lovely colleagues would go to a worthwhile charity. Top of my list was 1st Impressions, they are doing fantastic work helping women in the South West who don't have suitable outfits for the working world, to be kitted out from top to toe.
We all know how having the right outfit makes such a difference to our confidence and I've loved this charity since its inception. I'm hopeful that by donating my retirement gift it may raise a little more awareness about the unseen need 1st Impressions are addressing and more people will get involved."
Thank you Joanna!
Find information on getting involved on our Help Us page
Bath Life Awards 2025
1st Impressions are proud to be a finalist for the 2025 Bath Life Awards in the Civic & Community Category, to be announced on 27th March 2025.
Thank you to all the amazing volunteers, supporters, donors and the women that we are honoured to help
Swindon Careers Fair 2025
We had a fantastic time at the Career Fair in Swindon on 19th Feb, where we met some interesting potential clients who could benefit from our services. Additionally, we connected with three companies eager to collaborate with us, opening doors for future partnerships.
It was great to see new volunteers from Swindon showing an interest in joining our mission. Their support will enable us to expand and reach even more women who need our assistance. Overall, the event was a great success, and we're excited about the opportunities ahead!
Next Careers Fair is at The Apex Hotel, Bath Friday 21st February 2025.