A manager has shared a unique ‘coffee test’ he uses during job interviews, which can determine whether a candidate gets the job or not.
The stress of job interviews has only increased post-pandemic, as candidates can no longer rely on the comfort of virtual meetings. Instead, they must navigate the complexities of in-person interviews, including travel plans, outfit choices, and memorizing the interviewer’s appearance—all before the interview even begins.
Adding another layer to this process, one manager has devised a test that occurs outside the traditional interview setting.
Trent Innes, who previously held the position of managing director at the accounting software company Xeno and now serves as the chief growth officer at SiteMinder, shared his innovative ‘coffee trick’ during his appearance on the business podcast The Ventures.
When interviewing a job candidate, Innes often takes them on a walk to one of the company’s kitchens. He explained, “And somehow you always end up walking away with a drink.”
It appears that declining a drink isn’t really an option in this scenario. It seems mandatory to accept the cup of coffee or tea offered during the walk.
After the interview, Innes closely observes whether the candidate takes the initiative to return their empty cup to the kitchen. Failing to do so means the candidate isn’t a suitable fit for the company, according to Innes.
He believes that while skills and experience are important, the right attitude is crucial. He emphasized the importance of the ‘wash your coffee cup’ mentality, which reflects a person’s fit with the company culture.
Innes explained that these small actions, like returning a cup to the kitchen, are indicative of a person’s consideration and compatibility with the workplace ethos at the office.
He also noted that this practice helps keep the office environment clean and orderly. Innes pointed out, “If you come into the office one day inside Xero, you’ll see the kitchens are almost always clean and sparkling and it’s very much off that concept of wash your coffee from.”
Ultimately, the ‘coffee test’ is more than just about cleanliness—it’s about ensuring potential employees are willing to engage in the communal culture and responsibilities expected at Xero.