Survey reveals 1 in 4 Gen Z applicants bring parents to job interviews
A recent survey found that one in four Gen Z job applicants have brought their parents to job interviews. While the trend may seem harmless, employment experts warn it could harm career prospects.
Why is this happening?
The growing pressure on young people in today’s competitive job market is a key factor behind this trend. Guy Thornton, founder of Practice Aptitude Tests, explained:
“Young candidates face far more hurdles than in previous generations. Many feel intense stress and anxiety, which leads them to seek comfort and reassurance by bringing a parent to an interview.”
Thornton also pointed out that parents can sometimes be overly protective, wanting to ensure their child’s success. However, this approach often backfires. He said, “Parents might think they’re helping, but they can easily damage their child’s chances of securing the job.”
How does it hurt Gen Z’s employment prospects?
According to Thornton, bringing a parent to a job interview can signal a lack of independence and self-reliance—qualities employers highly value. “Employers may question your ability to manage job responsibilities if you need a parent to help you through the interview process. This can reflect poorly on your ability to handle challenges and work under pressure.”
Confidence, independence, and the ability to manage stress are all crucial traits that employers look for during the interview process. Even if a parent’s presence is comforting, it can undermine a candidate’s chances of being taken seriously.
How can parents support without attending job interviews?
Although parents want the best for their children, there are better ways to provide support than attending the interview. Thornton offered several tips on how parents can help their children prepare:
Help with research
Parents can sit down with their child to research the company they’re applying to. Understanding the company’s values and goals can give candidates an edge during the interview. This allows them to confidently answer questions like, “Why do you want to work here?”
Conduct mock interviews
Setting up a practice interview at home can build a young candidate’s confidence. Going through common interview questions helps them become more comfortable with the process.
Review their CV
Proofreading their CV can be invaluable. Many CVs get rejected because of avoidable errors. By catching any mistakes and making improvements, parents can significantly boost their child’s chances of getting an interview.
For more tips and guidance on securing your dream job, visit Practice Aptitude Tests.
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