What do you look for in a Nanny Interview?

[JennyNanny]

Hi Parents (& Nannies!),

I've got a few Nanny interviews coming up in London over the next few weeks and it's been a long time since I've interviewed.
What kind of questions do you ask when interviewing a perspective Nanny and what kind of things do you look out for?
I've always been a focus-on-the-kids type, but that's my nature anyway, but I don't know whether this would go down well...
Any tips would be greatly appreciated!!

Fanks!

Just been through this as I've been recruiting a new nanny. I asked about typical days, to get an idea of the types of activity they like doing (good answers were getting out and about, outdoors even if the weather isn't great, knowing some of the local groups etc that are around, craft type stuff, anything to show imagination and forward planning); how they would handle misbehaviour (had a couple of examples of common things, like sibling squabbles); meal times and cooking; what they enjoy about nannying, why they want this job.

But most important was a willingness to engage with the children, be willing to play and get on the floor, take advantage of opportunities to show how they would settle and bond (offering to read a book which with mine will lead to sitting on their lap), respond to questions with enthusiasm but not talking down to them, balancing their attention between both children.

HTH - good luck!

There are agencies who offer free advice for interviewing;
nannytree.wordpress.com/2011/03/29/hiring-a-nanny-5-step-guide/

But I'd say ALWAYS look for someone who addresses your child when you open the door - someone who sits on the sofa but is itching to get onto the floor with the children and will talk to them about their toys/likes/dislikes. When you offer her a cup of tea - does she put it in reach of your toddler? Does she put it out of harms way? Does she take her shoes off at your front door to prevent little crawlers getting outside germs... little things which I think matter.

A lot of the time, its not what they say - its how they act!! However education (NVQ's) sometimes are meaningless, experience is key and being able to deal with situations. Put your Nanny on the spot... Ask her: "What would you do if my child locked herself in the car with the keys?"

"What would you do if my child was scolded?"

Think about what answered you'd want to hear and see what you get back!

Good Luck :D