NANNY INTERVIEW TIPS

Get as much information on the position as possible before your interview. You should have a reasonable understanding about the job and requirements. It is also a good idea to bring a list of questions that you would like to ask the family as it shows that you have a genuine interest in the position and their family.

Be on time or even a few minutes early for the scheduled interview. Reliability is an important quality for a nanny job and excuses will only create an impression of disorganisation. Arriving late can ruin your chances before you have even begun.

First impressions last and so making a good first impression is the most important thing. Shake hands, introduce yourself, be positive and most importantly SMILE!

Use your manners at all times throughout the interview. You are interviewing for a nanny position, therefore parents look at you as a potential role model for their children.

Your appearance should be clean, smart and professional. Have your hair clean and pulled back off your face. Make sure your nails are short and without bright nail polish. If you have piercings, take them out, and if you have tattoos, make sure they are not visible. Keep in mind also that you may also be meeting the children, therefore make sure what you are wearing is also comfortable and child-friendly.

If the children are there, do not ignore them. Make eye contact and ask simple questions such as their name and age. Showing your love for children and a desire to build a relationship is what parents want to see when interviewing for a new nanny

You should know as much as possible about the position that you are going for. Asking questions about the nanny job shows that you are keen and interested. Below is a list of topics that you should cover:

• DUTIES
  Discuss what will be expected of you as a nanny. Is there housework involved or will you only be looking after the children. Who is responsible for disciplining the child/ren and discuss what methods will be used. What specific things should you do with the children. Eg. English lessons, helping with homework, transporting them to and from school etc.
• WORKING HOURS
  Discuss the amount of hours you will be required to work per week, on which days, and how much flexibility is needed/granted. Talk about your salary, the amount, and how often you will be paid. Also discuss any overtime or babysitting.
• HOLIDAYS
  Discuss when the family go on holiday, if you are required to travel with them or not. You should also discuss your own holidays, if there is a certain period in which the family would like you to take them or if it is flexible. DO NOT, however, ask for holidays or time off in advance.
• ACCOMMODATION
  For live-in nannies usually a room or separate apartment is provided. You should discuss what the arrangement will be and ask if you can see the accommodation.

Below is a list of frequently asked questions in nanny interviews. Be prepared to answer these in detail:

• Tell me about yourself
• Why did you become a nanny?
• What do you like to do in your spare time?
• What was your last job like?
• What did you enjoy most about your last nanny job?
• What did you dislike most about your last nanny job?
• What do you think children like the best about you?
• What sort of activities did you do with children in your care?
• What do you consider the most challenging part of being a nanny?
• Why do you think you are suited to this nanny job?
• What is your view on discipline?
• How would you handle a temper tantrum?
• What would you do if my child was seriously hurt?
• What would you do if my child has a fever?

Always give feedback to the agency after an interview with a family. We are here to help you, give you advice, and find a compromise between you and the family.