Last evening I read several chapters of a book on the subject. I was struck by the terminology used by many Human Resource Professionals (HRP) as they were quoted on the increasing involvement of parents in their children's careers. The words "kids," "children," and "child" appeared far too frequently in my opinion. Why your "child" should apply to our company. What's included in your "child's" benefits package. What your "kid" is doing at work.
The vast majority of the quotes did not focus on young adults right out of high school; young adults who by the way can vote, enter the military and (in most states) get married without parental permission. No, the subjects of most of these quotes were generally college graduates and some had advanced degrees. These "children" were in their 20's and held one or more academic degrees. While some resented their parents involvement in their careers, many others did not.
I'm having a real problem with this. At what point is it time for someone to grow up? At what point should someone be viewed as an adult? In my mind, when you go to work as an adult, have the workplace responsibilities of an adult, and get paid as an adult -- it's time to act as an adult.
Ah. that was so easy to say. But frankly, it appears difficult to do in view of the nature of the millennial generation. Fact: this is the workforce of the future. We need them. And, of course, we want to hire and retain the most capable and skilled ones. Do we really want to turn away young Einstein or Edison because he or she wears flip flops and jeans, stays connected with an iPod all day, wants to come and go at will, and is not interested in routine work? That's the challenge companies face.
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Copyright © 2009 Daniel W. Pelley
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1 comment:
I believe that once a "child" graduates high school, they should be considered an adult with regard to employment. Employers should squelch the parent interference by not indulging in it. I can't imagine what my mother would have said if I asked her to find me a job...she probably would have freaked out. We are experiencing very different times than when our parents were the "parents", but geez...make them grow up! "Kids" should take responsibility for themselves and embrace being an adult. Cut the cord Mom!!
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