5 Ways to Talk to Your Kids About Work and Careers
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As parents, we want the best for our kids. We want them to feel confident, secure, and excited about their futures. But career conversations can get tricky—especially when your child is anxious, lost, or resistant to advice.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to have all the answers. You just need to know how to start the right kind of conversations.
1. Ask, Don’t Advise
Instead of leading with “You should…” try questions like:
“What kind of work sounds interesting to you lately?”
“What subjects or projects have made you feel proud?”
“What brings you joy or provides energy?”
“What gives you purpose or meaning?”
Curiosity beats instruction every time.
2. Normalize Uncertainty
Let your kids know it’s okay not to have it all figured out. Share stories from your own career path—especially the zigzags. When they see that confusion is normal, they’ll feel less pressure to get it perfect.
3. Help Them Get Exposure, Not Just Ideas
Many young people struggle not because they lack ambition, but because they lack context.
You can help them by:
Connecting with professionals for informal chats
Trying internships or job shadowing
Exploring different industries through videos, books, or volunteer roles
Facilitating opportunities for exposure provides context—and with it, clarity in decision-making.
4. Focus on Skills, Not Job Titles
The world of work is changing fast. Instead of fixating on “What do you want to be?” try:
“What problems do you want to solve?”
“What kind of work environment do you think you’d thrive in?”
“What impact do you want to have?”
“What difference do you want to make?”
This helps your kids think more broadly and flexibly about their options.
5. Be a Safe Place, Not a Pressure Cooker
More than anything, young people need emotional safety to explore. If they feel judged or rushed, they shut down. But when they feel supported and heard, they begin to open up—and take ownership of their path.
Be open, curious, and supportive. Create the safe space they need, rather than adding unnecessary pressure.
Conclusion
Career conversations don’t have to be heavy or high-stakes. They’re an ongoing dialogue—full of listening, storytelling, and encouragement.
If you’re looking for structured ways to support your teen or young adult, I invite you to explore our Career Launch program—a space designed to move young people from stuck to self-assured.
