Gen Z's Job Hunt: Parents as Career Co-Pilots?

Parents are increasingly participating in Gen Z's job search, a shift driven by anxieties surrounding early career stability. A Zety report found 44% of Gen Z workers received resume assistance from parents, and 21% had parents contact recruiters on their behalf. Some parents even attend interviews or negotiate salaries.

This phenomenon is linked to a volatile job market, with Gen Z viewing their first job as having long-term consequences. Career experts suggest parental intervention stems from a desire to minimize risk in a competitive environment with fewer entry-level roles. While behind-the-scenes guidance is common, direct parental contact with recruiters is often viewed negatively by employers, raising questions about a candidate's independence.

In India, parental influence on career decisions is a cultural norm, typically indirect. Parents guide sector choices and salary expectations. Direct involvement in interviews or recruiter communication is rare and often discouraged, though families are becoming more involved in preparation due to rising competition. Experts emphasize that supportive involvement empowers young professionals, whereas over-intervention can limit essential skill development like self-advocacy and resilience.