Dear J.T. & Dale: My son is 24 years old and hates his job. He’s looking to change careers — his third in the two years since graduating from college. I think he is crazy to leave his current job until he knows what he wants to do next. What would you suggest? — Janice

Dale: Ah, Janice, as the father of three kids in their 20s, I know just what you’re experiencing. And if your son is like my kids, what you say will make absolutely no difference … which really takes the pressure off giving advice. On the other hand, I don’t suggest abandoning all hope or help. I’ve had some success at showing rather than telling them about careers. For instance, I’ve arranged introductions to people doing interesting work. One turned into an internship at an ad agency, and my son Joel may end up there — but even if he doesn’t, I’ve helped speed up the process of trial and error, which seems to be the main career-exploration method of 20-somethings.

J.T.: It’s pretty common these days for college grads to do a series of “course corrections” — which sounds better than “trial and error.” So, Janice, I don’t think it’s crazy for your son to leave his job, but I do think his situation will not improve until he gets some help in understanding his professional interests. To start, there is an excellent blog called BrazenCareerist.com, which has more than 50 young professionals sharing their insight and career advice with peers.

Dale: As for parents like you, Janice, J.T. has written an e-book, “STOP HOVERING: 10 Rules for Effective Elevator Parenting,” which can be downloaded for free at jtanddale.com. It will give you some options to show (not tell) your son about careers, while helping you understand the new workplace. It might even leave you grateful for all the options your children have, and all the jobs they will get to experience.