Nanny Interview Tips :
- Attire – Be sure to dress modestly, no cleavage or skin especially since the majority of initial interviews are with mom only. Don’t be too flashy either with lots of jewelry for example. You want to show that you are respectable, responsible and can get down on the floor with the kids to play.
- Bring a resume – Show that you are professional by bringing along a copy of your resume and any character/professional references.
- Do not speak ill of past families – Be sure not to complain about previous families. You can highlight, in general, pros, cons, positives, negatives, of past situations but do not focus too much on the negative. You want to come across as positive and loyal.
- Show Interest – Take notes, ask the names of the children, their personalities, likes and dislikes etc. Always remember to ask about any special needs, allergies and training which may be required.
- Responsibilities – Be clear about the role you intend to play. Agree upon tasks to be carried out. Always find out whether you are responsible for more than child related tasks and to what extent such as housekeeping, family cooking, errands, grocery shopping etc. When expectations are clearly sorted out in the beginning it allows for a seamless relationship in the future.
- Benefits – Will the family cover meals, metrocard, insurance, late night cab fare etc. Definitely agree upon this from the on set.
- Wages – Agree upon an hourly, weekly or monthly rate and frequency and form of payment. Also discuss a time period for performance review and rate increase. If you’re being paid “on the books” be sure to establish whether the rate offered is gross or net (meaning your take home).
- Family Dynamic – Feel out what the dynamic will be like between you and mom. Is she looking for a sister wife, a girlfriend in essence or an employee? You must determine what dynamic fits your personality. Do you mind texting each other all day? Do you like being micro-managed or having parents who allow you to control the day’s activities, meals etc?
- Activities – Always speak of activities and projects you have done in the past and are interested in doing in the future like museum visits or face painting at home. Research what’s available in the area and mention things which are age appropriate such as library story time for a toddler. Familiarize yourself with the age appropriate milestones of the children and activities to achieve or promote them.
- Childcare History – Inquire about past nannies and why it may not have worked out. I always find it helpful to know the background of the previous nannies since certain cultures generally act in a certain way which may indicate what the family is used to.
- Follow Up – Always leave with an idea of when a decision will be made and when you can expect to hear from the family.
It is so important to find the right family and the right fit for a job this intimate. I hope these tips help!
🙂
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