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 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.

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?

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!