Interview Tips for Babysitters and Nannies

Please use these winning interview tips to help you find a suitable childcare job.

Be Prepared

  • Take a folder with copies of your photo ID (e.g. Driver's License), your Working With Children Check, Police Check, references and a brief Resume.
  • Dress appropriately for the interview in smart casual clothing.
  • Allow plenty of time to get to the interview - particularly if relying on public transport.
  • Arrive 5 minutes early for the interview, so you feel relaxed and prepared.
  • Prepare some answers to questions that parents are likely to ask (see the list below), so you will be confident.
  • Prepare a list of questions you might like to ask the parents or child to show that you are interested.

Be Yourself

  • Be honest and open.
  • On arrival, make polite conversation before moving onto the interview questions.
  • Parents are looking for someone who can fit into their home - so just be yourself!
  • When answering questions, keep it short, simple and stay on the topic.
  • Make sure you include the children during the interview. Parents will want to see how you relate.

Questions parents might like to ask babysitters/nannies

  • What is your current position? (course, university, workplace).
  • Tell me about your previous childcare experience? (where, when, who).
  • Do you have any special qualifications? (First Aid?)
  • Why do you want to do babysitting or nannying?
  • What are your interests and hobbies?
  • How would you manage a specific issue? (eg separation anxiety when parent leaves, resettling the baby to sleep).
  • Have you ever had an emergency situation and what did you do?
  • What hours are you available?
  • What is your hourly rate?
  • Do you have a driver's license and a car?
  • Do you have a Police Check or Working with Children Check?
  • Do you have references available?

Questions babysitters or nannies might like to ask parents

  • What is the age of the child or children?
  • Tell me about his/her personality.
  • What are his/her likes and dislikes?
  • Does he/she have a comfort toy and/or dummy?
  • What are her/his favourite things - games, music, tv shows?
  • Would I be required to feed her/him? What types of food?
  • If he/she is an infant - Will he/she take a bottle from me?
  • Does he/she have any allergies? If so, is there an action plan if there's a problem?
  • Does he/she have any special needs?
  • Do you have a routine I should follow? (e.g., bedtime routine).
  • If I need to resettle the child, what settling strategies do you use?
  • Are there any other duties required, apart from childcare?
  • What other childcare have you used? (for nannies)
  • How has your child adjusted to this care? (for nannies)
  • How would you like to transition your child into my care? (for nannies)
  • What hours would you like me to work? Daytime / evening / frequency and duration?

We're sure these tips will help you shine during your interviews. All the best finding the perfect babysitting jobs.

Good Luck!

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