April 19th, 2020

Nanny Interview: Tips for families​

Parents always want the best for their children. When there is a need for a nanny, children undoubtedly deserve the best. It is important to be well prepared for interviews with candidates who may stay with your baby for the next few years. Think in advance what you will ask and what information you are willing to provide during the first meeting with the nanny.

A thoroughly thought-out interview will make it possible to use the time efficiently and evaluate the quality of candidates. Make a list of questions and think of the working conditions you would like to offer to a potential nanny.

​During the interview, make notes about each candidate, this way you will not get confused and will be able to objectively evaluate all applicants.

You may consider asking applicants the following questions:

Ask them to tell you about themselves. It is important to pay attention not only to the actual data (education, experience, etc.), but also to the ability to express thoughts and ideas, and the candidate’s energy. You can thus assess the level of communication skills, speech, general manners, etc. Find out where the candidates live, what interests they have.

What does the nanny understand about children's physical safety? The answer should be detailed and relevant to the age of your children.

Nutrition - find out what the nanny thinks about baby food. What products are not recommended or prohibited for children of your age group. What cooking methods are acceptable. What the nanny can cook, how varied her menu is, the ability to serve. If the baby is newborn, specify what the nanny knows about breast, artificial and mixed feeding. Hygiene rules for feeding and cooking.

Ask questions about daily routine for children. Even if the nanny’s opinion or experience does not completely coincide with yours, perhaps you will find something useful for yourself.
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Ask what the nanny thinks about organising a safe space at home. How they can ensure a balance of freedom of movement and security (what was their previous experience).

Rules of conduct for the nanny and the child in public places. Specify how the nanny will act in various situations (the child does not allow to hold their hand while crossing a busy road, likes to hide in the street, wants to accept food from a stranger, etc.)

Ask questions regarding emergency situations and first aid. You have to understand how the nanny will react in difficult situations and if you may rely on them. Find out if they have experience in providing first aid.

How and why can the nanny create emotional safety for children?

Find out how the applicant will respond to the child's refusals to fulfill their requests and suggestions.

What is going to be done in case of hysteria or aggression towards others or to the nanny.

What restrictions or prohibitions does the nanny consider necessary to introduce for educational purposes.

Exaggerate, provoke, do not be satisfied with standard, blurry, theoretical answers. The purpose is to understand what methods of influence the nanny may use (intimidation, shaming, ridiculing, blackmailing, ignoring, raising their voice, etc).

Discover how the nanny sees their role in the life of your child, how much they become attached to children, what boundaries they respect in relationships with children (kisses, hugs, says she loves them and will always be there). Find out what the nanny would do in case of a conflict between parents and children. 

Ask how the applicant understands the goals and objectives of their position. Pay attention to the first reaction as the answer should match your vision.

Clarify what the nanny can offer your child in terms of development. This is important even if you plan to organise developmental activities for your child by yourself. The time that children spend with their nanny should be interesting and useful for them.

If you are willing to take the child to the first meeting with the nannies, their reactions to one another will give you a lot of extra information that will help you make the right choice. If the applicant did not pay much attention to the child, and tried to impress you throughout the conversation, this is not your candidate. When the meeting with the candidate is over, ask your child for their opinion. Even if the child is young, just carefully monitor their reactions to each potential nanny.

The team of Morgan & Mallet International hopes you will find the perfect match. And if you need any help, please contact our offices worldwide and our professional recruitment consultants will be happy to select the best candidates for you, either for permanent or temporary roles. 

More info on www.nannies.agency