More than half of Gen Z job seekers — 51% — now have their parents accompany them to job interviews, according to a recent survey by Resume Templates. The trend underscores a broader pattern of intense parental involvement in young adults’ careers, raising questions about readiness, anxiety, and shifting expectations in the modern job market.
The Extent of Parental Interference
The survey of 1,000 Gen Z workers (ages 18–23) reveals that parental involvement extends far beyond simply offering advice.
- 75% of recent graduates report having their parents submit job applications on their behalf.
- 65% say their parents even completed candidate tests for them.
- Two-thirds of employed Gen Z workers admit their parents have contacted managers to discuss scheduling, promotions, or workplace accommodations.
Young men are more likely to receive this level of support, with 70% reporting parental application assistance, compared to 59% of young women.
Why Is This Happening?
According to a separate poll of parents, 71% said their adult children requested their help. Reasons cited include job search anxiety, inexperience, and the competitiveness of the current labor market.
Career strategist Julia Toothacre notes that high schools often neglect career readiness skills, and college career services are underused by students early in their academic careers. In this gap, parents often step in to provide support.
However, Toothacre warns that many parents are crossing the line from help to over-involvement. While resume review and application feedback are acceptable, taking over the process entirely is not.
The Risks of Over-Parenting
Research suggests that excessive parental involvement may hinder young adults’ career development. Over-reliance on parental assistance can undermine their ability to navigate the job market independently, potentially impacting their long-term professional growth.
This trend highlights a growing tension between the desire to shield young adults from hardship and the need for them to develop self-reliance.
The increased presence of parents in job interviews may signal broader cultural shifts: heightened anxiety among Gen Z, a more competitive job market, and evolving expectations around parental roles.
