A Parenting Author Says One in Four Gen Z Applicants Brings a Parent to Interviews
Parenting author Jennifer Cohen cites the figure and says some employers shy away as a result.
Habits and Hustle · Episode 586: Raising Resilient Kids in the Age of Smartphones and Overprotective ParentingParenting author Jennifer Cohen says 26 percent of Gen Z job seekers bring a parent to a job interview.
Cohen, who wrote a book about raising mentally strong children, offered the figure in a podcast interview without pointing to a survey. She called it a crazy stat.
She said young applicants bring a parent with them to interviews. She said the embarrassing part is that the practice is treated as acceptable, with nobody pushing back.
In her account, some employers respond by passing on young applicants when they expect that kind of help or see signs of it.
Questions people ask
Why would a parent go to an interview?
Cohen does not give a reason in these remarks. In general, job seekers sometimes want company, confidence, or help with difficult questions, and parents sometimes want to help.
Does bringing a parent hurt hiring chances?
Cohen says some employers will pass when they expect it. Outside this interview, career advisers generally say applicants should go in alone, since employers look for independence and clear communication.
What can parents do instead?
Outside this interview, the usual advice is to help at home. Parents can practice answers, research the company, and discuss pay ahead of time, then let the applicant attend alone.