Introduction. It has been assumed that the family is the basic social cell, where the values, beliefs, interests, and attitudes of a child are formed from an early age – including those related to work and career. The family has a significant influence on the educational and career development of the individual, and belongs to the group of so-called non-professional career counsellors, whose willingness to help is primarily due to emotional ties and is based primarily on their own beliefs. Aim. The article aims to outline the influence of the family (close, and extended) on the process of constructing the careers of its members, and the possible consequences of the actions taken. The subject literature shows that its influence can be both positive and negative. Confessed values, presented attitudes, models of functioning, as well as knowledge and accepted stereotypes determine the direction of actions of family members, each of children, adolescents, and adults. Materials and methods. The author analyzed selected subject matter literature, journals, and online sources on the possible influence of family relationships on the career construction process. Conclusion. The structure and role of the family have changed significantly over the years. The assumption that the family and, more specifically, its counselling activities have mainly positive consequences is erroneous. A lot of professional and educational advice is based on subjective assessments, and opinions, and is not supported by expertise, analysis, and research which can be outdated and sometimes even harmful.