You've recently graduated from college. The job market isn't looking too favorably on your liberal arts degree in philosophy. Your roommate just told you she's moving out and relocating. It's obvious that your "doing-this-till-I-get-a-real-job" gig at the mall isn't going to pay your bills and rent. What are your options? For many, it comes down to moving back home.

Home Sweet Home

Moving back home with your parents is a tough one; you've worked so hard to be independent and make it on your own financially. But go ahead and explore this option. Kids moving back in with parents is a frequent circumstance for families these days.

1. Call your parents and ask if you can come home for the weekend for a visit.

You might not want to say anything about moving back home with parents until you are face-to-face. Although they may feel like you are springing this on them, this will allow you some time to figure out how to approach the subject.

2. Prepare for the "talk."

Start by making a list of the reasons you are thinking of asking them if you can move home. Be specific and direct. In the past, you may have put a hopeful spin on your job search when you've talked to your parents. Prepare to let them know how it's really been going. It's important to also let them know that you've explored other options (another roommate, cheaper apartment, etc.).

3. Details, details.

You will want to show them facts and figures, like your living expenses. They may want to know what efforts you've been putting into your job search. If you are asking them to support you financially for a while, they have a right to know things that might seem personal. So include as much detail as you can on your list when discussing moving back home.

4. Quiet, please.

Find a time during your visit home to sit down in a quiet place and have your discussion. Cut to the chase because all kinds of things may pop into their heads when you announce, "Mom, Dad, I need to talk to you about something." Calmly tell them what you have in mind, using your list as a prop.

5. If they agree that moving home will work, discuss how and when it will happen.

Make sure you are factoring in what is convenient for them. Be very open with your parents about the timeframe you expect to be there. This is a situation where good communication of expectations and goals is critical.

6. Be honest.

Tell your parents how hard this is for you. You don't like feeling that you are letting them down by not succeeding. You may be surprised when they share that they've had to go through similar experiences and understand how you feel.

Rules and Regs

After you've moved back in, sit down again with your parents and discuss how long you think you'll be staying. Also tell them how much you will be able to contribute to the household expenses. Chances are they will be much more generous than your landlord was!

Even though you're an adult, you are living in your parent's home. Be respectful. They won't expect you to have an 11PM curfew, but don't come dragging in at 3AM. Remember, this is an adjustment for all of you. When figuring out how to move back home with your parents successfully, some compromises will need to happen.