3 Interview Skills You Need As A Nanny
THE ART OF THE INTERVIEW
Have you ever fallen in love with a family and been so excited to get started only to not hear back after your initial interview?
It’s easy to look good on paper, but it’s just as important to wow the family not just with your resume and experience but with your in person interview.
We wanted to share a few tips that we know families really appreciate and that have made the difference between making an offer to a nanny or not.
HOW TO SET YOURSELF UP FOR A GREAT INTERVIEW
So often people forget that simple things like prompt email replies and coming to an interview prepared are often the difference between getting or losing a job. It all really comes down to professionalism and that starts from the moment you are introduced to a new family.
It may be stating the obvious but this is a professional position and it is up to you to elevate yourself because nobody else can do it for you, so learning how to make a lasting impression is key to finding your next position.
I’m sure by now you know to show up 5 minutes early, offer to remove your shoes and wash your hands upon arrival are all musts in the nanny world but there is a lot more to nailing an interview than just that.
3 Interview Skills To Master
1. MAKE A GREAT 1ST IMPRESSION
Know how to sell yourself. An interview is your opportunity to shine and highlight your experience as a caregiver. Executing a skillful interview is an acquired skill and improves with practice so that being said, practice!
Practice makes perfect so they say and what better way to get comfortable in an interview setting. It can be a little nerve racking when meeting a family in their environment where they are drilling you with questions. Who isn’t a little bit intimidated by that? By preparing a list of interview questions and know how you want to articulate your experience and skills you set yourself up for success.
It’s also important to listen in an interview. Listening to what the parents are asking you then using real-life examples to paint a picture for the parents.
You are telling a story around the things that are most important for your interviewer and finding a way to not only answer their questions but also give them vivid examples goes a long way. It’s also important to remember that you are also interviewing the family.
Asking questions not only shows your curiosity about them and the children but it also tells a family that you are trying to find the right fit for yourself as well.
A few things you can do to show your value:
Have an example prepared of something great you did with another family
Bring a portfolio or photo book with examples of what you have done in the past
Use real life stories to paint a picture of what it would be like to have you as their nanny
2. BE PREPARED
Knowing who you will be meeting ahead of time is crucial when it comes to your interview. Not only does it show that you are responsible, it also shows that you are capable of taking initiative.
No one walks into an interview without knowing the specs of the job so do your homework ahead of time and make sure that the commute, schedule and the families general expectations match what you are looking for.
A few things you can do to show you’re prepared:
Arrive 5 minutes early, offer to remove your shoes and wash your hands and don’t wear heavy make-up or perfume.
Ask questions- bring a notepad and pen and have 3-5 questions already prepared.
Follow up with a handwritten or email thank you note to the family.
3. GO ABOVE AND BEYOND
If you make it to a second interview or working trial that is great news but this is not the time to wing it.
It’s also a good idea to get the lay of the land before hand, take a trip out there the day before so you are familiar with the route or research nearby age related activities like the nearest park, museum or library so you can incorporate your new found knowledge of their area into the conversation.
Parents are looking for a nanny who can bond with the child/ren but who are also aware of their external environment.
Brining an activity to do or even a favorite book shows thoughtfulness and not only will win of the parents but also the most importantly the child/ren. Although your primary responsibility is the child/ren a good nanny will also be aware of how to help keep the household running smoothly.
This is the difference between a babysitter and a professional nanny. It doesn’t mean mopping the floors or cleaning the toilet but it does mean being proactive and taking initiative around all things child related.
Examples on how to engage with the child/ren are, knowing the local activities, keeping the children on a schedule, helping to provide educational opportunities with age appropriate curriculum, proactively planning outings and playdates are all part of the bigger picture. Just like a school teacher plans her day for her class you are doing the same.
Make sure to not only get the lay of the land in your new neighborhood but also the household. What is the schedule to date, find out if there are any food allergies and what types of food you will be preparing for the children and talk about household expectations.
For example:
Get the lay of the land before you come. I.e. knowing where the local parks are, library or other fun age-appropriate activities in the neighborhood.
Bring a favorite book or craft with you will ensure you make a good first impression.
Don’t be afraid to talk about next steps, this is your search too so make…?
Here at Genuine Nannies we’re here to support both our nannies and families in finding their perfect match, which is why we provide ongoing training and education.
Hopefully this blog helps you better understand how you can prepare for your next nanny interview. Feel free to reach out if you want more support. We’re always here to help!