For Nannies: The Top Questions to Ask During a Nanny Interview
Interviews go both ways
As a nanny, walking into a job interview can be intimidating. Your head is full of smart answers to any potential questions the parents may pose, and your focus is on coming across as the best possible candidate for their job.
It’s easy to forget then, that a nanny job interview is also a chance for you to interview the parents, and find out if this is the best possible job for your skillset and ambitions. Because in as unique a position as nannying is, finding the right family to work with is just as important as the job itself.
We know a thing or two about nanny interviews
As a nanny agency with nearly 15 years of matching fantastic nannies with their ideal jobs, we know a thing or two about not just answering the right answers, but about asking the right questions. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to the right questions for you to ask.
To ensure the role is a great fit for both you and the family, make sure to ask these essential questions during your interview. And scroll to the bottom of this article to find the list of questions in an easy-to-check-off format!
Psst. Top tip! To really ace the interview, brush up on your interview skills with this guide on nanny interview tips to help you get the job!
Top ten questions for nannies to ask in a nanny interview
1. What are your expectations for daily duties?
Understanding exactly what the job entails will help you avoid surprises down the road. Ask about specific tasks like child-related chores, cooking, and transportation duties. Are non-childcare tasks, such as light housekeeping, part of the role? Clarifying this upfront will help you gauge whether you’re comfortable with the workload.
2. What is your parenting style?
Every family has its own approach to discipline and child-rearing. Ask about their philosophy on discipline, screen time, and other key parenting decisions to ensure your values align. For example, some families may practice positive discipline, while others might have different approaches.
3. What is the typical daily routine for the children?
Learning about the family’s schedule will help you understand the flow of your workday. This includes mealtimes, nap schedules, school activities, and extracurriculars. It’s also useful to ask if the family anticipates any major changes to this routine.
4. How do you prefer to communicate throughout the day?
Effective communication is essential for a smooth working relationship. Some families prefer daily text updates, while others may like a weekly meeting to discuss the children’s progress. Clarify the frequency and method of communication to make sure you're both on the same page.
5. What are the health and safety protocols in your home?
It’s important to know if the children have any allergies, special needs, or medical conditions that require attention. You should also inquire about the family’s stance on health safety, especially if COVID-19 protocols are a concern for you.
6. What role do you see the nanny playing in your family?
Families may see their nanny as an extension of the family or as a more formal employee. Some may want you to be deeply involved in family events and decisions, while others might keep boundaries between professional and personal interactions. Understanding this dynamic early will help you determine if the family’s expectations align with your preferred working relationship.
7. What is the length of the commitment?
Some families are looking for short-term help, while others are seeking a long-term nanny. Knowing how long they expect you to stay can help you assess whether the role fits with your career goals. Open and honest communication about these expectations prevent disappointment and possible resentment down the line. If you are applying for a job via a nanny agency like Smart Sitting, this kind of information will already be made clear before you are even matched with a family, to avoid conflicts.
8. What are the compensation and benefits?
Always ask about the salary and benefits, including vacation time, sick days, and any other perks like health insurance or use of a family car. Don’t forget to ask about how they handle payroll and taxes, which is important for staying compliant with employment laws.
9. Are there opportunities for travel?
Some families may require you to travel with them for vacations or work trips, while others may need you to handle responsibilities at home while they’re away. Knowing this upfront helps you understand if travel fits into your lifestyle. Some nannies love a job that involves travel, others know that a traveling nanny job is just not going to be right for them.
10. Can I contact previous nannies for a reference?
If the family has employed other nannies, it can be helpful to speak with them to get a better sense of what it’s like working with the family. This can provide you with valuable insights into the family’s expectations and work environment. Families will likely want to speak with your previous employers, as well.
Remember: These questions aren’t meant to put a family on the spot, just as their interview questions aren’t out to trick you out of a role. The point is you both want to find a match that will be successful and positive for both parties!
Keep the conversation open and collaborative—this will help you start the job on the right foot and ensure that both you and the family feel comfortable with the arrangement.
Quick read: Interview questions for nannies
What are your expectations for daily duties?
What is your parenting style?
What is the typical daily routine for the children?
How do you prefer to communicate throughout the day?
What are the health and safety protocols in your home?
What role do you see the nanny playing in your family?
What is the length of the commitment?
What are the compensation and benefits?
Are there opportunities for travel?
Can I contact previous nannies for a reference?
Need help getting a nanny job?
We get it, sometimes the job search can be daunting – leading you to neglect your needs and accept a job that isn’t a good fit for you. This only leads to unhappy caregivers, and unhappy parents!
Through our tailored match-making, the team here at Smart Sitting have been super successful in making thoughtful, dreamy matches between great employer families and extraordinary nannies. We know that the more expectations, skills, and non-negotiables that are clarified up front, the better, happier matches we make – with professional nanny jobs that turn into amazing careers with great benefits and job satisfaction.
If you are an experienced, engaging nanny or babysitter looking for a nanny job, we’ve got you. Apply today, and let a dedicated member of our team help you get the job.
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