Helicopter parents... in the workplace

[33girl]

I just don't get it. How are these kids not embarrassed as hell? Did they do some research in the past 20 years that bred out the "jeez, Mom, just leave me out of the car down the block and I'll walk the rest of the way" gene?

And this is coming from someone who was closer to and more sheltered by her parents than most people.

[StealthMode]

Originally Posted by 33girl

I just don't get it. How are these kids not embarrassed as hell? Did they do some research in the past 20 years that bred out the "jeez, Mom, just leave me out of the car down the block and I'll walk the rest of the way" gene?

And this is coming from someone who was closer to and more sheltered by her parents than most people.

Ditto. I would seriously die of embarrassment. Like no breathing, flat-lined, die of embarrassment. Not only is it humiliating but it's such a blow to the ego. The action very clearly says "I am agreeing to do this for you because I have absolutely NO confidence that you can succeed on your own." Knowing my parents thought I was that incompetent would break my heart.

However, I don't see anything wrong with a "bring your parent to work" day. I see it as no different than bringing your child or other relative to work to see what you do. Now, if your parents just insist on following you and looking over your shoulder...that's like those kids whose parents "drop them off" at day camp but actually just sit on the bench outside and don't leave.

[jenidallas]

I love what one of the TCU folks (Kay Higgins, Director of Parent and Family Programs) says to parents - "Are you going to come back and watch them every time they take an exam?"

I have always allowed the parents up to our offices at work (and I can only think of one 20-something I've hired in recent years who has not had mom and/or dad come by for a visit) - but most of them realize their snowflakes are in good hands at our workplace and leave it be after that.

I have only had one involve a parent in their job interviewing/negotiation. As it was for a sales position, we withdrew the offer. If you can't navigate your own job offer, how the heck can I expect you to negotiate with a client on your own?!