As a parent, it can be strange seeing your child going to work. You still think of them running around in diapers and crying because they grazed their knee – and now they’re being paid for their time and skills.
However, first jobs can be scary and difficult. The world of work is never plain sailing. From heavy workloads to redundancies or even wrongful terminations, your child will need your support. In the current economical climate, wrongful terminations could be rifer in particular industries, so make sure you know your (and your child’s) rights – see a wrongful termination lawyer for more information.
Here’s how you can help your child when entering the world of work.
The dress code
Whether your child is working in an office, shop or restaurant, most companies will have a dress code. What we wear to work says a lot about us and, while appearances aren’t the be all and end all, looking smart, clean and professional shows that we have a positive attitude and take the job seriously. So, help your child to look their best. That might mean taking them shopping and buying a few wardrobe staples or washing and ironing their clothes before they go.
Financial support
While your child is starting to make their own money, they might need a little financial support when they get going. Most jobs pay monthly, meaning that your child will struggle before their first paycheck. They might need to pay for transport or lunch on the job, so loaning a little will be a great help. Plus, you’re rewarding them for doing something productive.
Ask about their day
We’ve all had a horrible day at work. It feels endless and everything goes wrong. Your child needs to learn that this is OK and vent about their feelings. So, when they get home, ask about their day and take the time to listen. Taking an active interest in their career shows that you care about their future and will help them to connect with their emotions.
Knowledge and expertise
You’re a lot older than your child and have probably got plenty of experience in the world of work. You know what is normal and what isn’t appropriate. Use your knowledge and expertise to guide your child and help them to make decisions. You’ll know if your child is being taken advantage, underpaid or treated unfairly. You’ll also know if they’re not pulling their weight or behaving appropriately. So, use your expertise and teach them how to navigate the world of work.
Don’t coddle
Watching your child go to work can be emotional. You’re a parent, so it’s natural to worry. However, while your child needs to know that you’re there for them, they also need to learn to be independent and to solve their own problems. So, don’t coddle. Avoid phoning them at work or pestering them with messages. They are becoming an adult and that means being less reliant on you.
