Talking to the Head of Graduate Recruitment in a major bank recently, she used the term “Helicopter Parents” - something I’d come across but not given a lot of thought to. What do helicopters do? Well, they hover around and make a loud buzzing noise. That’s what helicopter parents do too! Helicopter parents are an increasing phenomenon - it seems that a lot of parents are taking flying lessons. This is how it looks….
Little Johnnie applies for the graduate scheme with company A. Mom or Dad put a call through to the recruitment department at the company to follow up and to find how good Johnnie’s chances are. Here’s another one - little Jane has an interview for the same graduate scheme. The big day comes around and who arrives to the interview - Janie and her Dad/Mum!
Call me simple, but is there anybody reading this who thinks this is a good idea? If so, please go and have your head examined immediately! There’s a big difference between being an involved parent and an over - involved parent. The biggest issue though is in the message this action gives to the recruitment team. What it says is “MY SON/DAUGHTER IS NOT MATURE ENOUGH TO HANDLE THIS ON THEIR OWN, SO I’M HERE TO HELP”!
Don’t do it - you’re hindering and not helping! A suggestion to all helicopter parents? Buzz off!
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