It is a well-known fact that each parent wants the best for their child, especially those ones who cannot spend a lot of time with their offspring because of their career or business and have to hire childcare help.
Parents are always serious and scrupulous in the selection of a nanny or a governess for their children that is why it is extremely important to make a good impression during a face-to-face interview.
The consultants of Morgan & Mallet International would like to provide some tips on how to convince your potential employer that you are right for the job:
- First, you judge ‘how nice’, then you judge ‘how wise’. Preparing for a face to face meeting with parents, you have to remember that you are always judged by appearances at first but by your mind later on. As a child carer and a person who will spend a lot of time with children, you are setting an example for them. First of all, your clothes have to be neat, comfortable and at the same time not revealing. Your hair should be clean and in case you have long hair, we would recommend making a ponytail or a nice updo. Definitely, it is not forbidden to wear light makeup: neutral tones of eye shadow, some mascara and even bright tones of lipstick are preferred (but do not exaggerate with the last one, as both children and parents may not like dark purple or deep brown lips). If you like wearing accessories, we would recommend something neat and discreet for a childcare worker. It is always preferable to conceal tattoos or piercing at least for your first meeting with your future employer but you may mention about it if you are offered the position.
- Organise yourself. As a Nanny or a Governess, you have to be ready that parents may ask you what method of education you use or what kind of activities you are going to do with their children, or if you have any certificates or diplomas that may be relevant to a childcare position. Prepare your documents as if you are going to be hired straight after your interview. We would recommend having copies of your certificates (especially First Aid), passport copy, driving licence copy, even if you have recent DBS check you may include that to your folder and do not forget about references from your previous employers. You may also have a folder with different worksheets that you used with children or a diary template that you made for parents. Such approach to the interview will demonstrate that you are an organized, motivated and trustworthy candidate.
- Show positive side of your character. It is very important to be either early or on time for the interview. Meeting your potential employer, you always have to remember that you are going to take care of their children and you have to convince them that you are really a child friendly, reliable and warm person, that every child is special and unique for you and you are going to adore your client’s children as they do. You have to remember that you are the person with experience and you have to be confident in your answers that is why it is necessary to be calm, smiling and relaxed. When you have a chance to ask questions, be sure that you get all information about children, their preferences and routine and after you can discuss salary, your schedule, etc.
