Business Owner Criticizes Embarrassing Summer Job Trend, Calls Out Parents

As we gear up for spring and start thinking about stepping into style, make sure you check out this exclusive deal from DSW for 20% off shoes and accessories! Teens looking for summer jobs may want to pay attention to a recent viral take from June Farms owner and reality series star, Matthew Baumgartner. He’s not too happy about a trend he’s noticing where parents call on behalf of their teenagers to inquire about job opportunities.

Baumgartner, who has been hustling since the age of 7, expressed his frustration in a blunt Instagram video that quickly went viral. He believes that parents reaching out on behalf of their kids signals a lack of motivation and initiative. In his eyes, it’s important for candidates to showcase their own interest in a job, rather than relying on their parents to make that first contact.

While some may argue that parents helping their children network is a form of assistance, Baumgartner believes that the trend has crossed a line. He stresses that the first interaction a potential employee has with a hiring manager can set the tone for their application, and having a parent intervene doesn’t provide any insight into the candidate themselves.

Many viewers online supported Baumgartner’s viewpoint, with some commenting that if a candidate can’t reach out for a job themselves, they may not be the right fit for the position. Others shared their own experiences of parents overstepping in the job application process, from sitting in on interviews to answering questions on behalf of their children.

While not everyone agreed with Baumgartner’s take, he stands by his belief that applicants should take the initiative to apply for jobs themselves, especially when it comes to older teenagers and adults. So, for teens looking to land a summer job or anyone seeking employment, remember that taking the initiative and showcasing your own interest in a job can make a big difference in the eyes of potential employers.