When adult children find themselves back at home after graduating college, parents find it difficult to chase them off or to refrain from coddling him or her. After all, they have been away for at least four years.
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Instinctively, a parent wants to provide for a son or daughter regardless of their age or stage in life. Yet, parents essentially want their children to reach their full potential in life.
These five simple tips can help guide any parent in assisting an adult child discover his or her career path:
Volunteer
What better way for one to discover their true passion than by helping others in the process? You can offer to accompany your son or daughter when he or she volunteers, or you can simply bring up the idea and allow them to take on the task alone.
Whether they volunteer for a humanitarian cause or for a corporate entity, the experience can spark an interest that one never knew he or she had. If given the opportunity, how many average-age workers would turn back time in order to discover what their passion in life truly is?
Network
In today’s society, social media is essential for networking. You can reach out to friends, family and associates across the world. Utilize your network for your child’s benefit. Acquaint your son or daughter to your professional network because you never know where a perfect match may be hiding.
Consider a higher degree
Introduce the idea of earning a Master’s degree online. A job will not seem like work if it is something one enjoys doing. Encourage him or her to consider earning a degree in a field that he or she finds intriguing.
Furthering your education and getting a Masters in Diplomacy, for example, is a great way for one to gain more knowledge and experience needed to be a good communicator and leader. Norwich University’s online program is a great program that allows students to earn a degree and get the needed experience, but doesn’t force them to alter their existing work schedule drastically.
It’s a great way to gain more education while still working.
Invite them into your financial reality
Be real. Ask him or her to sit down and pay bills with you and reconcile your bank account. Be frank about the responsibilities ahead by acquiring first-hand knowledge.
Provide moral support
Nothing is more important than a strong support system. Whether it is going shopping for interview outfits with them or practicing mock interviews, supporting your son or daughter through this transition is essential.
Ultimately, the best thing a parent can do for his or her adult child who lands back at home after college is to stay supportive, but give them the tools needed to find their career. Parents can provide a helpful nudge by being real about life’s responsibilities, offering moral support, encourage higher learning, networking and volunteering.
About the Author:
Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She graduated from Colorado State University in 2004. She enjoys writing about education, home and family, finances, and much more.
CMO Contributor
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