Tips to Have a Successful Nanny Interview
Whether you’re just starting out in your nanny career or are a seasoned nanny, preparing for a nanny interview can be nerve-racking. You’ll be happy to learn that although there is a level of professionalism to be had, these interviews are the place to let your personality and love for children shine so you can show families who you really are.
Here are some tips and advice to have a successful nanny interview.
Arrive on Time
Arriving on time is the real first impression you get to make with your nanny family. Showing up on time conveys that you are serious about the position and respect the family’s time. Although life happens, we can’t afford to let it happen on interview day. Starting off the interview on the right foot is very important!
TIP: Arrive at the interview location 10-15 minutes before the interview starts, waiting until the final five or fewer minutes to actually go to the home or meet-up spot. This way, you avoid any need for excuses about not being on time. Have the family’s contact number handy just in case you have any issues finding the meet-up location.
Be Prepared
Get as much info about the position as possible. Ask your agency any questions you may have to get a reasonable understanding of the job and its requirements to avoid any major surprises.
It’s also a good idea to have a list of important questions you want to ask. Then, spend some time reviewing them before your interview (possibly during your 15 minutes of free time in the car) to help you stay on track. Don’t worry; you can take them out during the interview, but more on that later.
TIP: Having the family members’ names memorized before you get there is a plus! Nothing is worse than mixing up the kids’ names throughout the interview.
Presenting Yourself
Positive Attitude
How you present yourself in this nanny interview can be the difference between getting the opportunity and not. Considering you want to land the position, be enthusiastic, personable, and happy to be there. Of course, it’s hard not to let nerves get in the way, but if you can move through those feelings and present yourself in an upbeat way, you will stand out from the crowd. Since you’re working with kids, families want nannies that are going to bring a positive attitude to work. This is the time to show them that spark. Be confident and humble in your abilities, and you will shine.
Dress Appropriately
As a nanny, there isn’t necessarily a dress code, but you should be mindful of dressing appropriately. Dress nicely, like you would any other interview, but not constricting, as you’ll likely be getting down and playing with the children. This means wearing clothes you can move comfortably in without the risk of exposing too much while you’re playing.
Leave Your Phone Out of Sight
This is important– put your phone away! Don’t grab your phone during the interview unless it makes sense to. Even if there is a moment of silence or the parents are off doing something with the kids, stay off your phone. Being fully present during the interview, even in passing moments, will show a family that you can be fully present with their children moving forward. This is the start of building trust with the parents.
Interact With the Children
While meeting and talking with parents, make sure to give special attention to the children as well. Children are usually nervous or very excited to meet you. Talk to them, and when it’s time, actively play with them. Ask the children questions and prompt them to ask you any they may have. Their thoughts and feelings about this interaction are just as important as you and the parents. Showing kindness and love toward the children will leave them feeling special, and they’ll definitely remember you over another candidate that was solely focused on the parents.
Prepare Your Questions
Asking good questions during an interview shows you’re interested and invested in the opportunity. As we discussed earlier, writing down some questions will save you from forgetting essential points you’d like to touch on during the interview. If your questions weren’t already answered naturally through conversation, make sure to ask them at the end. If you have an inkling that you may be forgetting something, feel free to pull out your list to remind you of any remaining questions.
Below are some questions you may want to ask during an interview.
Questions to Ask:
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What are you looking for out of a nanny?
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Can you walk me through a typical day? What are your family routines?
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Are there any household management duties you expect of me? meals/laundry/errands/pet care
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Are you open to me taking your child to local parks, museums, and playdates?
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What are some of the children’s favorite activities? (Ask the children if they’re there!)
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How does your family handle discipline? What do you expect from me when it comes to discipline?
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What are your family’s screen time rules?
Prepare your Answers
Families are going to want to learn about you too! So instead of being caught off guard when the spotlight is on you, here is a list of common questions you can be prepared to answer.
Questions About the Position:
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How did you get started in childcare?
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How long have you been nannying?
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What age ranges do you have experience working with? (Be specific on your experience pertaining to the age range of the family’s children.)
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What are you looking for in your next position?
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Why did you leave your last family?
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What activities do you enjoy doing with children?
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What is your favorite and least favorite part of being a nanny?
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How would you handle a tantrum?
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What is your approach to discipline?
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Have you had a challenging nanny moment? What was it and how did you handle it?
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How do you comfort children?
Questions About You:
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What do you like to do in your free time?
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What do you see yourself doing in the future?
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What are you passionate about?
Pep Talk
Throughout the nanny interview process and trying to find a position, it’s easy to see yourself as just another candidate in a sea of other nannies. Yet, each nanny brings a unique set of experiences, skills, and passions to the table– these are what you want to emphasize. Lean into your uniqueness and know your worth as a nanny.
Remember, the work you do is important.
You will help foster beautiful childhoods for children and shape them into the people they will become. Have confidence and show your ability to love children in how you speak, listen, play, and interact with them. If you can move past your nerves for a second, your spark may just shine through and land you the job.
