When its time to interview a nanny in your home, spend time greeting and introducing the candidates in your family.
You can learn a lot in the first 15 minutes after they arrive.
Start by introducing them to your child when you greet them at the door, and notice the interaction between them. If the nanny goes out of her way to make your child smile, this is a sign the nanny has passed the first test.
Invite them to sit with you and your family, and ask open ended questions during the interview such as: “Tell me about yourself.” This is the best question to get the conversation started.
It’s amazing how quickly you can sum up a candidate’s character, and see their personality shine through in their responses.
This question also gives the nanny candidate time to reflect and tell you about their background. It’s a good question to calm down jittery nerves at the beginning of the interview, because there isn’t a right or wrong answer.
It’s normal for you and the candidate to feel nervous at first.
You may want to show them family photos and offer them a glass or bottle of water.
When you sit down, ask them, “Why do you want to work as a nanny?”
If they reply, “Because I like children,” ask them, “Why not work in a day care center?” and see if you like their response.
It’s exciting to see how certain questions can project a candidate’s personality – and this is what you are looking for, in addition to knowing more about their experience.
Aim to get to know the caregiver as best as you can.
Some interviews can last as long as an hour and up to two.
If you find within 30 minutes of talking, that this is not the candidate for you, politely end the interview, and thank them for coming. If an interview lasts more than an hour, then this maybe one of your top candidates.
During the interview, ask a series of questions such as: “What did you like or dislike about your last job?” “How long do you want to be a nanny” and “What are your interest or hobbies?”
If the candidate starts gossiping about the last family she worked for, and telling all of their personal business, this may not be the best candidate for you, if you guard your privacy.
Ask more specific questions such as:
· “How would you respond if my child had a temper-tantrum in the grocery store?”
· “What would you do if she or he accidentally fell down the steps?”
· “What if she suddenly ran a fever while we were out on a date-night and unreachable?”
Pay attention to their body language and facial expressions, and your own gut feelings.
Ask yourself if you feel comfortable or relaxed in their presence, or nervous and unsure.
Once you’ve had a round of interviews like this, narrow down your choices to two or three candidates so your family can decide who they would like to hire.