More Than A Quarter Of Gen Z Brought Their Parents To A Job Interview

Gen Z job seekers are starting a new trend by bringing their parents to job interviews. Around 26% to be exact. This generation values their parents’ advice and support, even in professional settings. Employers are noticing this shift and are adapting to these changes. It’s a unique approach that showcases the close bond between Gen Zers and their parents. We’ll look deeper into this phenomenon and discuss the other behaviors of Gen Z when applying for jobs.
The Study

Gen Z is often perceived as lacking independence, motivation, and practical knowledge to effectively contribute in the workplace. A study by ResumeTemplates reveals Gen Z behaviors when applying for jobs.
Bringing Parents To Interview

A significant number of Gen Zers include their parents in their job interviews. In the past year, 26% of Gen Z job seekers have brought a parent along to an interview.
In-Person Vs. Virtual

Of those who involved their parents, 31% had them present during an in-person interview. Meanwhile, 29% had their parents participate in a virtual interview.
Parents Join the Process

Among those who had a parent present at an in-person interview, 37% said their parent came with them to the office, 26% reported their parent actually sat in on the interview, and 18% mentioned their parent introduced themselves to the hiring manager. Furthermore, 7% noted that their parents even answered some of the interview questions.
Virtual Interviews

Among virtual interviewees, 71% had their parent off-camera, while 29% had their parent visible on-camera. Most on-camera parents, 85%, interacted directly with the hiring manager, and 85% also provided their children with information during the interview.
Parental Influence On Job Success

Among those recently employed, 83% credit their success to their parents, 26% fully and 57% somewhat. Only 17% do not attribute their success to their parents at all.
Parental Involvement In Job Applications

Among those seeking parental assistance, 24% had their parents submit job applications on their behalf. This accounts for 17% of the total sample.
Why Gen Zers Rely On Parents For Job Applications

Gen Zers often ask their parents to complete and submit job applications because they believe their parents’ work is better (46%), and they lack the skills to communicate with hiring managers (34%). Other reasons include low motivation (32%) and poor mental health (22%).
Lack Of Motivation

It’s concerning that such a big portion of Gen Zers rely on their parents for job applications due to a lack of motivation. This trend raises questions about their readiness to take on the responsibilities and challenges of the professional world independently.
Job Market Challenges

Gen Zers are stepping into a job market that’s both full of opportunities and quite complex. It’s no wonder they often turn to their parents for guidance. Parents can provide essential support and help their children make informed choices.
Parents’ Intentions Are Good

It’s natural for parents to want the best for their children, especially when it comes to job interviews. They want to make sure their kids are prepared and that the companies they’re interviewing with are reputable. This protective instinct is understandable and comes from a place of love and concern. After all, parents just want to see their children succeed and thrive in their careers.
Finding The Right Balance

Striking a balance between offering support and promoting independence is essential. Parents should guide and advise without taking over the process, allowing their children to make their own decisions and face challenges. This way, Gen Zers can benefit from their parents’ experience while also growing into self-sufficient and capable professionals.
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