When 23-year-old Emily Carter graduated from college in 2024, she faced a tough job market. Despite applying to over 100 positions, she landed few interviews—until her mom, Susan, stepped in. According to a Business Insider report, Susan leveraged her professional network to connect Emily with hiring managers, leading to a full-time marketing role within weeks.
How It Worked
Susan, a project manager with 20 years of experience, reached out to former colleagues and LinkedIn contacts in marketing. She arranged informational interviews and recommended Emily to a friend at a mid-sized firm. That connection led to an interview and, ultimately, a job offer. Emily’s story highlights a growing trend: parents using their networks to help Gen Z graduates navigate a competitive job landscape.
Key Insights
- 60% of recent graduates report difficulty finding jobs, per a 2025 survey.
- Parental networks are increasingly vital, with 35% of Gen Z job seekers relying on family connections for opportunities.
- Soft skills matter: Emily’s mom coached her on networking etiquette, which impressed hiring managers.
Why It’s Happening
With entry-level jobs scarce and AI-driven hiring systems filtering out resumes, personal connections often make the difference. Career experts note that parental involvement can bridge the gap for graduates lacking professional networks. However, they caution against over-reliance, urging young job seekers to build their own connections through internships or LinkedIn.
The Takeaway
Emily’s success shows how parental networks can jumpstart a career, but it also underscores the importance of initiative. Graduates should combine family connections with proactive networking to stand out in today’s job market.