Tips for Your Nanny Job Interview
Congratulations! You’ve secured an interview for a great nanny job. The interview with the family is your opportunity to shine! Be sure to leave 10-15 minutes earlier than planned and arrive with a smile. Show immediate interest in the child(ren). Don’t forget they are why you are there! Read below for more nanny interview Do’s and Don’ts.
DO: Arrive on time and prepared for the interview. Leave 10-15 minutes earlier than planned in case there is traffic or an accident. Know the children’s names, ages, school arrangements, etc. Also have a list of prepared questions to ask during the interview.
Do: Have a resume or nanny portfolio to refer to while discussing your experience. Being able to show a family your past experience and relate back to it during the interview helps the family see your abilities. If you don’t have a resume or portfolio bring along a list of references names and numbers and/or letters of recommendation.
DO: Make sure you have a clear understanding the responsibilities of the position. This will help you relate your skills and accomplishments to the position, even if you come from another field.
Do: Use good eye contact and proper speech. Good eye contact indicates confidence. Proper speech helps us communicate better and teach children good verbal skills.
Do: Turn off your cell phone. You should always remember to turn off your phone before an interview. A ringing, beeping or vibrating phone during an interview is very distracting to everyone. If possible leave it in the car.
Do: Know the next step. At the end of the interview ask when you will hear back from them and if they need any additional information from you.
Don’t: Bring up your salary right away. Let the family get to know you and all you have to offer before you tell them your salary requirements. If the employer brings it up you can give them a salary range. You should avoid expressing a figure until you know that an offer has been extended.
Don’t: Underdress for the interview. You can show respect to the family by wearing proper attire. Wear nice slacks or a casual dress with appropriate shoes. If you want to wear jewelry keep it small. Remember kids grab for things and are sensitive to smells.
Don’t: Bring a friend to the interview. A nanny should always come to the interview by themselves. If you are unsure of the location or length of the drive they can practice before. Calling for a ride at the end of the interview can be very awkward for everyone.
Don’t: Talk negatively. Do not talk negatively about previous jobs, employers or kids you have taken care of. If they ask you why a previous job ended give them a brief and truthful answer without sounding negative.
TLC for Kids has great part time and full time jobs available now. If you are looking for a rewarding job working with kids please apply with us today! Visit our website to learn more or call us at 314-725-5660.