Nanny Trial Periods
Starting a new nanny job can, like any other job, be intimidating. It may take a few days or even a week to get your bearings, so be patient with yourself. Getting to know the children and establishing yourself as an adult they should feel comfortable with and respect does not happen overnight. Stick with it and go about your job as if you had been in it for two years! Confidence is the key to success. Keep communication open with the parents and work with them.
Here are some useful tips to help you get off the ground:
Learn the house rules your employers have implemented and be sure to stick to them firmly. If the family is of a different religious or cultural background than you, respect all practices and differences. Ask for training and /or explanation if necessary
Ask for a set of the house keys to use throughout the day in case you and your charges are in and out.
Make sure your duties are clearly outlined in your nanny contract so you can tackle them during the down time of your day. Also make sure your pay day and days off are also clearly stated there.
Ask where the fuse box, first aid kit and stopcock are and ensure you have contact numbers for the parents.
Make a list or the children’s allergies, special dietary needs and any medical conditions. Do you know where the medication is kept? If not, be sure to find out. If it regular medication ask for training in administering it so you understand dosage etc. If any of the children have an epipen ensure you are trained to use the make they have.
Most importantly, if you need further guidance or help settling in The London Nanny Agency will be happy to help.
Nanny Interview Techniques
Initial interviews are frequently held online. It is important to prepare for this as much as for a face to face interview. Have your CV and documents to hand. In addition ensure you are well presented and have a neutral backdrop in a quiet and private space. It is helpful to have the camera pointing directly at your face rather than from below. Interviews can take place via zoom, whatsapp video or facetime so be ready to have these downloaded and and check beforehand they are working to avoid last minute panic.
- Have an organised, clear and easy-to-read CV free of spelling and grammatical errors. Bring a cleanly printed copy to your interview!
- Your dynamic experience as a nanny should be communicated in your CV. What were your responsibilities? Were you required to go above and beyond standard nanny duties?
- Ensure that the contact details for your referees are current and accurate. If you have written references, bring copies of those as well.
- Bring your certificates and diplomas in a folder to show the parents.
- Dress neatly for your nanny job interview. You should not be too dressed up as it’s impractical and not reflective of the job you are seeking. Clean, tidy and respectable clothes are the best choice
- Smile, have a firm handshake, and be open and friendly. After all, you are going to be looking after children!
- Be open and honest, but be sure to share the positive aspects of your previous nanny jobs. It is not professional to criticise previous employers. All negatives or bad experiences are actually opportunities to learn and grow!
- Speak clearly and slowly. Articulation is key.
- Do not inquire about salaries or accommodations in your first interview. These are handled in the second interview. It is more important to get to know the family with whom you are interviewing. Remember, you are trying to determine whether they are the right fit for you as well!
- Most importantly, ask lots of questions about the family, the children’s interests, their daily routines and activities. If there are any allergies/medical information needed make sure you are comfortable and understand the implications. If the children are present, be friendly, introduce yourself, and ask them about themselves. Connecting with the children should be your primary goal.