How to get that
nanny job!
Nanny CV
A good nanny CV is clear, neat and up-to-date. Keep information concise and factual without waffling and avoid going over two pages. As well as your previous experience, include all your qualifications and briefly mention personal attributes – dynamic, fun, enthusiastic etc. These can be detailed further in your cover letter along with any more skills and qualifications you feel are important to sell yourself as a great nanny. Employers often prefer a handwritten letter which adds a much more personal touch compared to printed duplicates.
Nanny References
You should go to all interviews with at two least references; one professional and one personal. The former should be should be from your last nanny job or if you’ve just left college, your tutor. Take two professional references if you have them. The personal reference should be written by someone who knows you well and who has a respectable job such as teacher, doctor or lawyer. The nanny references will be checked, so ensure that they are up-to-date with correct telephone numbers and addresses.
What to wear at a nanny job interviews
First impressions are always important. For this reason it’s good to avoid jeans and sneakers for interviews (even though it will probably be uniform at work!) and instead dress smartly yet comfortably - a dress or trousers and smart top with a jacket are ideal. Too much make-up, jewellery and high heels aren’t practical nanny gear and won’t endear you to future employers. Neat nails and tidy hair will. Nannies that look clean, fresh and ready for action are far more likely to get the nanny job.
What to say at a nanny job interview
From the word go, it’s vital to show respect to potential employers, so when you address them, always use their names. Speak clearly and not too quickly when answering questions. Don’t just answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’, try to give examples of what you mean, remembering that honesty is definitely the best policy here. Avoid using slang or informal language; after all you want them to respect you too.
Questions you may be asked at nanny job interviews
1. How long have you been a nanny?
2. How old are the children you have worked with?
3. Why do you want a nanny job- why do you enjoy working with children?
4. What qualities do you have that relate to childcare?
5. What are your qualifications?
6. Do you have any special skills or talents (cooking, music, art)?
7. Can you describe a day you’d spend with a baby or small child?
8. What would you do in an accident or an emergency?
9. Have you had any bad experiences and how did you resolve them?
10. How do you approach discipline? What would you do if a child had a temper tantrum?
11. What would you cook for children aged 0-1 and 2-5?
12. What household chores would you be willing to do?
13. Are you happy to baby-sit?
14. Can you drive and have you had any accidents?
15. How many days off sick have you had in the last 12 months?
16. Have you ever had a period of unemployment and if so why?
17. What was your last nanny job and why did you leave it?
Issues that should be clarified about the nanny job
1. Nanny Salary details including information about Nanny Tax & National Insurance.
2. How nanny's payments will be made - cash, bank transfer etc
3. Number of hours a week and nanny duties expected
4. All house rules - especially where live-in nanny is concerned
5. Time off and nanny holidays
6. Length of nanny job probation period
7. Child safety both in the home and outside
8. Be sure to agree on methods of discipline
9. When the nanny job will start and how long your contract is
More Nanny Job Interview Tips
Sitting opposite your interviewers for the first time can be a daunting experience for any nanny. Take a deep breath, relax and be as natural as possible. Simple things like sitting up straight, looking your interviewer in the eyes, smiling and listening carefully to questions will confirm you as someone alert, confident and enthusiastic. Arrive early - punctuality is crucial to getting (and keeping) that nanny job.
Click here for details on recommended nanny agencies in your area. All our recommended nanny agencies have confirmed that they conform to our strict nanny welfare and child welfare Code of Practice.
