Be a LISTENER What is my role as a parent in my child's job search process?
Choosing a career can be a stressful and confusing time. However,
when a student has a supportive ear to listen, it can be a time
of excitement and exploration. For a parent this means setting aside
any preset agendas and truly listening. Try to see the situation
from your son's or daughter's perspective and avoid giving advice
unless asked. This is a fine line to walk for parents who have their
child's best interests in mind.
Be an ADVOCATE
When something has the potential to cause stress, it is easy to
put it aside until later. Career decisions are often put off until
senior year. To make a more insightful and beneficial choice, encourage
your child to begin early. The Career Center is available to students
and alumni. Encourage your son or daughter to start the career process
in their first year at Dickinson. Meeting with a counselor early
and attending relevant workshops can make a world of difference
when it is time to begin seeking a job or graduate program.
Be a NETWORK RESOURCE
Even in the age of technology, most students find their jobs through
the art of personal connections. Through your own life experiences
you have a multitude of connections with friends, family, colleagues,
community organizations, and neighbors. Having your son or daughter
talk with persons in fields of interest to them will help him/her
to gain valuable information in making career choices.
Be a STORYTELLER
This is the most enjoyable part. Sharing your own career story and
those of others you know will alleviate some of the fear of the
unknown. Students often get caught up in the thought that there
is only one perfect career for a person. The reality is that the
average person in the workforce today may have seven to ten job
changes and three or more career changes. Sharing your career journey
is likely to relieve stress from a potentially stressful process.
