<p>Putting aside the fact that the economy is terrible right now, and no one is really hiring (we’re not even interviewing), find a way to get any kind of experience. My personal recommendation is not to go back to school until he has a better idea of what he wants to do. </p>
<p>One of the things I see in a lot of young people (including my own, which I try to disabuse them of) is an unrealistic set of workplace expectations. In some senses, it is an entitlement mindset; it might also simply be the fact that success to this point in their life has basically meant working hard. In most organizations (business, government, non-profits), that is a given - every new hire is expected to have this quality. And we hiring managers expect smart (= high GPA) candidates. But basically the HR department screens out anyone who doesn’t have these qualities - so a high GPA by itself doesn’t stand out.</p>
<p>What we really need though is someone we know who can get things done. And that has to show through in about the first 5 minutes of the interview. If the candidate can’t convince me (based on resume, presence and, yes, professional appearance (attire, grooming, posture, etc.) that they are going to help me accomplish my objectives, the interview is basically over (though out of politeness it’ll continue for the full 30 minutes). The ability to get good grades (basically individual achievement) doesn’t equate to an ability to accomplish something in an organization - experience does (and the more the better, even in menial jobs). And if the person has no emotional intelligence, forget it. </p>
<p>No one is going to give your child a job - he has to convince someone that he is deserving of the chance. (Note: I was a dual journalism / lit major, I joined the Peace Corps, then decided to get an MBA - took me til my late 20s to settle on a career, but it was based on workplace reality, not academic aspirations).</p>