Gen Z is bringing parents to job interviews, letting them talk to managers: Study

India Today

5 hours ago

'I wish I could take my parents to the interview!' For many Gen Z jobseekers, that's no longer a wish but reality. A study by Resume Templates shows 77% of Gen Z candidates have brought a parent to an interview.The scenes are surprising: some parents simply sit in, while others go further. Nearly 40% sat in the meeting, one-third asked or answered questions, and more than a quarter negotiated salaries or benefits. About 25% even introduced themselves or pitched their child to the hiring manager.advertisementPARENTS AS CAREER MANAGERSThis trend doesn't stop at interviews. The study revealed:75% of Gen Zers used parents as professional references63% had parents apply for jobs on their behalf54% had parents email hiring managers53% had parents call managers directly48% admitted parents completed test assignments41% let parents take first HR callsIt even extends into the workplace -- 8 in 10 Gen Z workers said their parents communicated directly with their manager, including over conflicts, promotions, or workload.WHY THE 'FEARLESS GENERATION' NEEDS BACKUPDespite their reputation, Gen Z has fewer workplace connections than older groups. They average only 16 strong business relationships, compared with 21 for millennials and 40 for Gen X.This 'network gap' comes from the pandemic, when internships, networking events, and workplace banter were replaced by remote classes and online chats.Many Gen Zers are keen on in-person work (only 23% want remote full-time), but still feel unready for professional settings without support.RISKS AND ALTERNATIVESExperts caution that this parental involvement may signal a lack of independence. Instead, they suggest parents provide support at home — through mock interviews, resume feedback, and guidance -- rather than stepping into meetings.A growing alternative? AI tools like ChatGPT. Already, 1 in 5 employees has used AI in job interviews, simulating questions and boosting confidence without raising recruiter concerns.THE BIG QUESTIONBy 2030, Gen Z will make up 30% of the global workforce. The real test is whether they'll enter as self-sufficient professionals or remain tethered to parental guidance.For now, though, the picture is clear: a 'fearless' generation walking into job interviews, not alone, but with parents at their side.- Ends