Nanny 101

Lesson 3: Getting the Job

Accepting or Declining the Job

After the interview you will have a clear indication about whether or not this is a position you would like to have or if it is one you are not interested in. It is possible that you and the family might not agree on whether or not you fit together. If the family is interested in you and you do not feel the same, clearly explain to them why it is not the right opportunity for you. There is no harm in telling them that you are not comfortable with some of the expectations or that the children are younger than you feel able to care for. This is an opportunity for you to help them think about their expectations and point out areas that might need to change. If you are interested in a family but they do not offer you the job, ask them why. It is important for you to know possible issues that might prevent you from finding a position. You may learn that if you had more training in a certain area or more experience with infants that you would be more marketable. Learning how you present yourself to others is valuable information to have. Always be courteous and honest in this process because you never know if your paths may cross in the future.

You may be asked to have another interview and, depending on distance, you may be asked to meet with the family in person. If at all possible, meeting the family before you accept a job is a good idea. It is the last screening process in making sure everyone is going to be happy. If this is not possible, consider asking to speak with the family again and having the children present so you can get to know their personalities. Meeting face to face is ideal but does not always happen in a live-in situation. Try and gather as much information as you can before accepting a job.

Make sure you take the time to think about all of the information you have gathered. Being a live-in nanny is a big job. You are about to live and work in the same place and have the gigantic responsibility of managing the care of someone’s children. Make sure you are positive about the family before moving forward.

After the interview, things usually move rapidly. It is possible that you could be living with a new family in a few weeks. Before you accept or decline a position, make sure you are making the right decision by going over the notes from the interview.

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