Nanny 101
Lesson 2: Finding a Job
Filling Out the Job Application
A job application for a nanny agency is not too different from that of any employer. With a few exceptions, relevant childcare experience is requested, personal questions are asked and a written essay explaining yourself and why you want to be a nanny is usually required. I have already discussed the types of jobs, qualities, and experiences that are useful when looking for live-in childcare but the essay should not be considered secondary by any means. Since you will live with the family the questions on the application for employment are detailed and, at times, personal. The idea is not to discourage you from applying but rather to make informed choices when presenting you to a potential employer. Since you will live with your employers, making sure a complementary fit is achieved is very important for all parties involved. Certainly certain things such as criminal convictions, smoking and heavy alcohol use is not conducive to a quick placement (or any placement at all).
The application will vary from agency to agency but some of the general questions that you may be asked are:
- Location you are looking for employment.
- Name, address, and contact information.
- Citizenship
- Education completed and name and location of schools attended.
- Do you have a special degree in childcare?
- Experiences (childcare, housekeeping, other relevant).
- Detailed previous work experiences including contact name and number.
- Are you CPR certified?
- Do you have any other special training or certifications?
- Personal references (usually at least three but no more than five people not related to you).
- Have you been convicted of a crime?
- Do you have a valid driver's license? What is the number? How is your diving record?
- Are you allergic to animals? If so, what kinds? Would you work in a home with pets? If yes, which ones?
- Do you swim? How well?
- Do you smoke? If yes, how much?
- How often do you drink alcohol?
- Are you taking medications that may effect your mental/physical functions?
- Are you willing to commit to a position for at least one year?
- Are you comfortable working for a family with a different background from yours?
- How many hours a week are you interested in working?
- What aged children do you feel most comfortable with?
- How many children are you comfortable caring for at one time?
- What is your personal approach to childcare?
- Describe the worst childcare situation you have been in. How did you handle it?
- What is your philosophy about discipline?
- What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?
- What kind of family would you prefer working for?
- What are your hobbies?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
The essay is where the agency and families get an initial glimpse into your thought processes and how you view and handle yourself. While it does not spell out everything about you, it does give the reader a first impression of who you are, so you should carefully consider what sort of message you are giving. The essay will usually ask you one or more direct questions about yourself. Essay questions usually require you to think carefully about whom you are as a person and where you are with your life. A good question to think about is what, specifically, makes you a good nanny (think about experiences, attitudes, and events that help you feel this way). The essay is like reading a conversation with you so being clear and offering details and backing up your qualities will portray you in a positive way. Energy is also a good thing to keep in mind when you write your essay – stay positive and upbeat at all times.
Finding work as a live-in nanny is not without its special challenges but you will be surprised at how many families are hungry for a good person to work along side them. Being informed and aware of who you are and what you are looking for will aid you in this process. Finding a job is the easy part; it is everything that happens from this point on that can be a challenge.
Print this page
Latest Articles