I'm on my 2nd generation now and both parents have office jobs. They are both at level 2 and have all the career upgrades available to their generation. It is really hard to get them to complete their full work cycle. They will get half way through and wander off to wish for a second bathroom or something. They do finish occasionally, but at this rate they will be on level 3 when they die. I never had this problem with their parents. Is this an issue with the 2nd generation upgrades? Will this improve as they get promotions?

They'll probably do OK when the game is off. Make sure they are praised when they are working by the green glove and candy/fruit to encourage them.