How to respond to “My parents handle this kind of thing”
Customers say “My parents handle this kind of thing” for a reason. Here is what usually sits behind it, how to respond and what to avoid.
What is really behind it
A young adult may rely on their parents for money decisions, or may not feel confident to decide alone. They may also be avoiding the topic. Respect the family and keep the conversation clear and honest, without pressure and without talking down.
Typical in: Insurance and finance, Real estate
How to respond
Pick the framework that fits the customer. The wording is an example direction, not a script: say it in your own words.
Acknowledge, then ask
Show you heard it, then ask an open question before you respond.
“That is understandable, it is good to have people you trust to advise you. Would you like to think this through with them? I can explain what it is in simple terms, so you can share it.”
Propose a smaller step
Shrink the decision to something low-risk that moves things forward.
“I can write down the key points in plain language, with no pressure. If it would help, I am happy to talk to you both together, whenever it suits you.”
Clarify before you answer
Ask what sits behind the objection, so you answer the real concern.
“What part would you like to understand better yourself before you talk to them? If you are comfortable with the basics, the conversation with your parents will be easier.”
The follow-up question
After your response, ask:
What do you think your parents would ask first?
What not to say
Avoid: At your age you need to start making your own decisions.
It is patronising and can make the young person defensive. A respectful, patient explanation builds trust.
Practise it out loud
Reading is not the same as saying it. Talk to an AI customer who raises this kind of objection and see in the report which sentence helped.
What does “My parents handle this kind of thing” really mean?
A young adult may rely on their parents for money decisions, or may not feel confident to decide alone. They may also be avoiding the topic. Respect the family and keep the conversation clear and honest, without pressure and without talking down.
How do you respond to “My parents handle this kind of thing”?
Acknowledge, then ask: “That is understandable, it is good to have people you trust to advise you. Would you like to think this through with them? I can explain what it is in simple terms, so you can share it.” Propose a smaller step: “I can write down the key points in plain language, with no pressure. If it would help, I am happy to talk to you both together, whenever it suits you.” Clarify before you answer: “What part would you like to understand better yourself before you talk to them? If you are comfortable with the basics, the conversation with your parents will be easier.”
What should you ask after “My parents handle this kind of thing”?
What do you think your parents would ask first?
What should you not say when a customer says “My parents handle this kind of thing”?
Avoid “At your age you need to start making your own decisions.” It is patronising and can make the young person defensive. A respectful, patient explanation builds trust.
Educational conversation training. It is not legal or financial advice and it promises no results. Always follow your company’s rules, the terms of the product and a customer’s clear no.