Quick bit of last minute advice please - I'm having my fist ever skype chat with a potential au pair

[MrsFogi]

• do you usually do this alone or do you involve your dp?
• if they're good do you then arrange a follow up so they can meet the dcs?
• do you make yourself look decent or let them see you in your usual state (in my case very comfortable clothing that I pull on after work)?

Any tips for a first timer?

Well your DP should be involved if he lives in the same house as you! He's got to share...and she'll be looking after his DC I assume...why wouldn't he be involved?

I would show myself as myself. I wouldn't make an extra effort.

I've never had DP on Skype for a first interview, I always do a first interview just with me and then a second interview with the children. DH usually sticks his head around the door at the end.

I always look semi-decent anyway..but don't go to a big effort - although it is a bit off-putting as you can see yourself at the bottom of the screen!

Tips:
Speak slowly and cleary.
Sorry will finish later as DD needs me

Smile and be friendly. Try to be relaxed as possible because there's a 90% the possible AP is having a nervy bee too. I usually do them by myself, then if things go well on the second skype chat I include the kiddies too.

I tend to do it with the kids there to see how the ap reacts to them.

I try not to look too much of a fright but not make too much effort either - kind of supermarket casual.

I then try to do a second interview by myself if the ap seems like they might be nice.