In a recent study by ResumeTempletes.com, it found that 25 percent of Gen Zers have brought their parents to a job interview with them. The researchers surveyed 1,428 U.S. adults aged 18 to 27 who looked for a job within the past year as away to better understand how much Gen Z relies on their parents when job searching. The survey found that 70 percent of Gen Z who was surveyed have asked their parents to help them find a job, while 16 percent say their parents actually submitted job applications for them. 1 in 10 surveyed admitted that their parents actually wrote their resume.

It seems as though Gen Z appreciates their parents’ wisdom, but can that be taken too far? According to David Rice, an HR professional at People Managing People, it depends on many factors when it comes to parental involvement in a job search. “Some parents are overbearing and some kids always seek their parents’ help, but in terms of looking for a job, every kid wants their parents to know they’re doing the right things and pursuing opportunities,” he said.

Rice also weighed in his opinion on parents tagging along with their child to a job interview. “Pursuing a job, getting it and going to work is a journey that is meant to be a life experience, which shapes you and helps you move into adult life,” he said. “It’s not something your parents should be holding your hand through,” he said. “And if I were a hiring manager seeing this, particularly in a person who is old enough to go to college, I’d be concerned about this person’s ability to work unsupervised, make decisions on their own — and how easily they can be misguided.” Jill Chapman, director of early talent development with Insperity echoed a similar reaction. “It speaks volumes to an organization if the parent is intimately involved in the process, and it reflects poorly on the candidate,” cautioned Chapman.

So, how can parents constructively help their kids when they are looking for a job? Amy Morin, a psychotherapist who is the author of the book”12 Mentally Strong People Don’t Do.” “Parents can help kids prepare for the interview ahead of time: Talk about what to wear, how to behave, and what to expect.” She continued, “Discuss things like basic social skills — such as turning off your phone — to how to ask questions about benefits such as health insurance.” She added, “Perform a mock interview and give feedback. Review sample questions and talk about how to address tough questions or how to explain gaps in employment.” Another way parents can help their children is sharing their own experiences and tips. “Talk about your own experiences in pursuing a job and relay what you learned,” said Rice. “But insist that this is something that they have to do on their own,” he said. “If you’re old enough to go to work, you’re old enough to explore what working life is on your own. Emphasize that this is a natural part of life and becoming an adult.”