The process of finding and hiring the perfect bilingual nanny for your family can be a challenging task. Conducting a thorough interview is a crucial step in this process. To help you prepare for the interview and ensure you ask the right questions, we have compiled a comprehensive list of nanny interview questions, as well as some valuable tips on how to assess the candidate’s suitability for the role.
Preparing for the Interview
Most nanny interviews begin with a video call, followed by a face-to-face meeting and trial period if the candidate makes a good first impression. Trial periods can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the complexity of the role. It’s essential to be well-prepared for the interview to make the most informed decision about the candidate.
1. Background and Experience
To get a clear understanding of the candidate’s background and experience, ask the following questions:
- Tell me about yourself and why did you become a nanny?
- How many years have you worked as a nanny? Can you share your experience, job responsibilities, and reasons for leaving your previous nanny jobs?
- What was your favorite and least favorite part of your previous jobs?
- Tell me about the gaps in your job history as a nanny. Have you had any other jobs?
2. Relationship with Children and Parents
Understanding the candidate’s relationship with the children and parents in their previous roles is crucial. Ask these questions to learn more:
- In your opinion, what did the children and parents like most about you in your previous jobs?
- Can you describe your ideal family/employer? What makes you feel the most comfortable, and what type of situations make you feel least comfortable at your nanny job?
3. Activities and Daily Schedule
Having a clear idea of how the candidate plans to spend their day with your children is essential. Ask these questions to learn more:
- What are your favorite activities to do with children as a nanny? How would you plan a day for my children?
- What sort of meals would you prepare for my children?
4. Discipline and Behavior Management
A nanny needs to enforce discipline and manage children’s behavior effectively. Ask these questions to assess their approach:
- How do you discipline the children you look after?
- How do you deal with temper tantrums?
5. Health and Safety
Ensuring the health and safety of your children is of utmost importance. Ask these questions to learn about the candidate’s approach to maintaining a safe environment:
- How do you ensure health and safety while taking care of children?
- What do you think are the biggest risks to children both in and out of the home?
- If a child you were looking after developed a fever, what would you do? How would you cope if a child got hurt?
Questions for the Family
Remember that the interview is a two-way process. The candidate is also evaluating the role and your family to determine if it’s a good fit for them. Be prepared to answer questions they might have about your family, previous nannies, and any special requirements for the role.
7. Previous Nannies
The candidate might ask about your previous nannies, the reasons they left, and the things you liked or disliked about them.
8. Work Hours and Responsibilities
Be prepared to discuss the work hours, babysitting expectations, and any special requirements, such as driving, traveling, proxy parenting, or speaking another language.
9. Family Background
The candidate might be interested in learning about your family, your children’s personalities, and your parenting style.
Pre-Interview Preparation
Before the interview, ensure you have all the necessary documents and references ready. This includes verifying the candidate’s CV, checking their Enhanced DBS clearance, and contacting their references to learn more about their previous roles.
If you need help with the hiring process, consider working with an agency like Elisa’s London Nannies, which offers CV writing services and assistance with Enhanced DBS applications.
Final Thoughts
A thorough and well-prepared interview is essential to finding the perfect nanny for your family. By asking the right questions and assessing the candidate’s suitability for the role, you can ensure a successful hiring process and a happy, comfortable experience for both your family and the nanny.
