When interviewing for a nanny position, it’s easy to feel like the spotlight is solely on your skills and experience. But families are looking for more than just a capable caregiver—they want someone who truly gets their needs and can become a seamless part of their home. Here are three key things families want to hear during an interview and how you can incorporate them:
1) “I love working with children because…”
Families want to know that caring for children isn’t just your job—it’s your passion. They’re looking for someone who genuinely enjoys engaging with kids, helping them grow, and creating meaningful connections.
Be ready to share stories that illustrate your enthusiasm, and get specific. For example:
- Did you help a child conquer a fear? How? What did you learn from the experience?
- Are you known for creating fun, educational activities tailored to each child’s interests? Pick one example to share.
- What’s your favorite part of the day working as a nanny?
By highlighting your joy in nurturing children, you’ll reassure families that you’re in this line of work for all the right reasons.
2) “I’m proactive about making your life easier.”
Okay, so you don’t have to say these exact words. But parents are constantly juggling countless responsibilities, and most want a nanny who can step in and bring calm to the chaos. Show how you anticipate needs and contribute to a well-functioning household:
- How do you stay organized with children’s schedules and activities?
- What are some ways you’ve solved problems in the past, such as coordinating last-minute changes or handling unexpected challenges?
- How can you demonstrate your willingness to pitch in where an extra set of hands is needed, with things like basic meal prep or keeping common areas tidy?
Communicate that you’re not just there for the kids but are also a reliable partner in keeping the household running smoothly.
3) “You can count on me for the long term.”
Consistency is critical for families, and they want to feel confident that you’ll be there when they need you. Emphasize your dependability and long-term commitment by sharing:
- How you’ve built lasting relationships with past families. (Still in touch? Fabulous! Now’s the time to share that!)
- Your approach to communication, including regular check-ins
- Your ability to adapt to changes, such as evolving family schedules or travel needs. That’s not to say that you are required to be available 24/7, but flexibility is paramount for families seeking support!
When families hear that you’re reliable and invested in forming a lasting partnership, it puts their minds at ease and reemphasizes just how valuable of an asset you could be in their home.
Interviews are about connection. Families want to feel like you “click” with them and understand what’s most important to them. By showing your love for children, your proactive approach, and your reliability, you’ll leave a lasting impression that positions you as the ideal candidate for their household.
Your future family is out there—let your enthusiasm and professionalism shine through, and you’ll be one step closer to finding your next perfect match!