Important Tips For A Great Nanny Interview

Once you have finished the phone interview and the face-to-face interview, it is time for you to get ready for a nanny interview at the client’s place. There are certain tips that would make for a great nanny interview.

Tips for a great nanny interview:

 
a) It is very necessary that you reach the parent’s home of in time; so carefully plan your route and start early to reach the their home at least 10 minutes in advance. So always obtain clear instructions regarding the location of the house, the exact address and telephone number of the family you are visiting; it is best to carry a map or A-Z with you and ring the family for instructions if you are delayed or lost. Map out the route and even do a test drive before.

b) Dress appropriately and present a smart appearance. It would be ideal to wear pressed jeans and a casual top with flats, keep piecing or jewelry if any to the minimum. Dress comfortably, so that you can easily get to the floor and interact and play with the children.

c) A resume is very important and tells the interviewer about your professional qualifications, skill set, work experience and achievements; do not forget to bring your resume that is neatly typed or printed.

d) Appear to be positive, professional and confident. Try and relax as the parents are looking forward to employ you. Do not fidget, but appear interested and keen. Presenting yourself as a professional also means not chewing gum during the interview, keeping your cell phone in silent mode and speaking a clean and clear language. Introduce yourself to the parents with a smile and a handshake.

e) Maintain eye contact with the person you are speaking to; also practice the skill of active listening before you speak to show that you are paying attention to the parent.

f) Show interest in the children and interact with them in an age-appropriate way. Ask the parents if you could play with them or if they would like you to concentrate on questions put to you. Do not ignore the children as the parents are looking for a nanny who can interact well with the children; be ready to read a book or play a game with the children.

g) Resist the urge to answer the questions in Yes/No and to exaggerate or stretch the truth. Be honest while answering and talk about specific details of the previous jobs on broad issues like why you choose to be a nanny, qualities of a good nanny and other specific questions asked to you. 

h) Interview is a two way communications, so do not hesitate to ask job related questions like duties, expectations, family routine and house rules and any questions you find worthwhile in connection with your job as a nanny.

i) Make sure to have a separate list of references ready to produce if the parents ask for it. The references should be checked before providing their contact information; also give a call to the references before hand to inform them.

Lastly always send an email or handwritten thank you note, thanking the parents for their time and the opportunity to meet their family.

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