Why 77% of Gen Z Job Seekers Are Bringing Their Parents to Interviews

A July 2025 survey reveals a concerning trend among Gen Z job seekers: 77% admit to bringing a parent to job interviews, with over half (53%) having their parent speak with hiring managers on their behalf. This reliance on parental support extends beyond the interview, with 73% of respondents relying on parents for work assignments and 45% having parents interact with their current managers. Experts are sounding the alarm, warning that this behavior undermines Gen Z’s professional credibility and preparedness for the workforce. Career consultant Julia Toothacre attributes this trend to a lack of critical developmental experiences, exacerbated by the pandemic and technology, while Moms for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich emphasizes that parents should empower, not perform, for their children in the professional world.