5 Things Parents Get Wrong About the Modern Job Search

(And How to Really Help Your College Grad Get Hired)

If your recent college grad is sending out résumés with no luck, it isn’t because they’re unmotivated. It’s because the hiring world they’re entering looks nothing like the one you started in. I’ve reviewed thousands of résumés and hired hundreds of people — here’s how to help without the stress.

1) “Just Apply Everywhere!”

Spraying applications all over the internet doesn’t work anymore. Most résumés disappear into applicant tracking systems (ATS) before a human ever sees them.

Instead: Encourage your grad to focus on quality, not quantity — tailor the résumé and cover letter to each job. A few targeted applications beat 50 generic ones.

2) “Go Hand Them Your Résumé”

That used to show initiative. Today, most companies don’t accept walk-ins or paper applications — it can backfire.

Instead: Help your child build a strong LinkedIn profile — it’s the new résumé. Connections and keywords matter more than handshakes.

3) “Follow Up with a Phone Call”

Hiring is handled by centralized systems now, not direct managers. Cold calls often annoy rather than impress.

Instead: Encourage strategic networking: connect on LinkedIn, request short chats, and attend industry events. Relationships open doors phone calls can’t.

4) “You Just Need More Experience”

It’s hard to get “experience” when even entry-level roles demand it. Grads feel stuck in a loop.

Instead: Create experience: volunteer, freelance, tackle short projects, or complete a focused course. Employers value initiative and skills over titles.

5) “Back in My Day…”

Comparisons to the past land as pressure, not perspective. Today’s hiring world is faster, more digital, and less personal.

Instead: Lead with empathy. Ask how they’re feeling. Listen first, advise second. Being understood is often the help they need most.

Bottom Line

You can’t fight the modern job market — but you can help your child navigate it smarter.

If you want personalized strategies — from ATS-friendly résumés to confidence-building interview prep — that’s what I do.