In the Netherlands, parents tend to stop offering career guidance once their children start working. Only 12% provide work-related advice after their child's first job, according to a global LinkedIn survey. Yet, more than 2 in 5 employees say they would have welcomed additional parental support throughout their careers. These findings come ahead of LinkedIn's third annual Bring in Your Parents Day on November 5, when companies in 17 countries open their doors to employees' parents.
During school years, Dutch parents remain actively involved. Two-thirds help select appropriate subjects, three-quarters assist in choosing further education, and another two-thirds advise on job applications.
One in ten parents holds back because their child doesn't ask; 15% fear offending them, and 69% believe adult children should make their own decisions. Two-thirds of Dutch parents identify as 'Lighthouse Parents' – reliable beacons of advice without excessive interference.
However, this hands-off approach depends on children seeking guidance. Just 5% of working adults consulted parents on job issues in the last six months; for a quarter, it was over ten years ago, and one-third never have. The top reason? More than half doubt their parents truly understand their roles.
