Nanny 101

Lesson 3: Getting the Job

Interviewing is a difficult experience for everyone. Most people have at least one horror story to share and if you are not careful, you could end up losing out on a job or even worse yet, working for someone you are not compatible with. The interview process is the time for you to articulate your talents, ask questions, and set expectations. Asking thoughtful questions is very important because this is not a situation where you want to discover, after being hired, that you are expected to spank the children or that boyfriends are not allowed. You cannot be too inquisitive when dealing with people you do not know. The interview process is the only time you have to choose who you are going to work for.

What to Expect

The interview process is the most important part of ensuring the success of the nanny/family relationship. This process is just as important for the nanny as it is for the family. In the same way you are expected to answer questions about yourself, the families you speak with should do the same. Remember that this is not just a case of you fitting in with them; they also need to fit in with your expectations. Open communication from both sides is expected. You should be prepared to, both, answer questions and ask them. This is the time to get a clear picture of what working for and living with a family might look like.

In many cases the interview will take place over the phone. This will happen as either an initial screening or because distance does not allow for an in-person meeting. It is for this reason that your words are very important because they may be the only way for you to communicate because things like body language, eye contact, and appearance will not be a part of a phone call. It is for these reasons that being prepared for the interview is very important.

Taking good notes will help you in this process and allow you to review what was discussed later on. You should write down the things you like, dislike, and questions to consider. After your interview you should review what was discussed and think about how you would feel about working for the family.

When going for an in-person interview, make sure that you are appropriately dressed. That does not necessarily mean that you need to wear a 3-piece suit, but it does mean that you should wear a dress or nice pants and a nice shirt. However, do not wear something so fussy that you cannot get down on the floor and play with the children if the opportunity arises. If you normally wear make-up, it is OK to wear it to an interview, but remember that this is not a nightclub. Make-up should be tasteful and kept to a minimum. Also, keep in mind that many people are allergic to perfume. Wear very little, or better yet, none until you know. If you are a smoker, DO NOT smoke before the interview. Wait until after the interview so that you do not go in smelling like smoke. Do not wear clothing that you have smoked in previously (such as a jacket that does not get washed each time you wear it). You would be surprised how much that smell clings to clothing and how offensive that can be to people who do not smoke.

1  2  3  4  5