When you’re looking to hire a nanny, and you find someone you love, nanny interview red flags can be subtle, especially when a candidate looks great on paper or interviews with confidence. When families are eager to secure reliable childcare, it can be tempting to move quickly and overlook warning signs that appear during the interview process.

Understanding nanny interview red flags helps families avoid mismatches that lead to stress, turnover, and disappointment. A thoughtful nanny interview process protects not only your household but most importantly your child’s sense of consistency and security.

1) Why Keeping an Eye Out for Nanny Interview Red Flags Matters

The interview stage sets the foundation for the entire working relationship. Beyond qualifications and experience, interviews reveal communication style, professionalism, and alignment with your family’s values.

Interview red flags often show up in how candidates speak about past roles, respond to questions, and approach structure and accountability. Noticing these early can save families from difficult situations later. That’s not to say that interview nerves can’t come into play—they are very common! But there’s a difference between nervous jitters and a potential red flag. 

2) Nanny Interview Red Flags to Watch Out For

a) Red Flag One: References Are Not Available or Feel Incomplete

Professional nannies should be able to provide references from past families. While there are some exceptions (i.e. the primary contact passed away, they have since changed their contact information, etc.), a lack of references is one of the most common interview red flags.

Be cautious if a candidate:

• Avoids the topic of references
• Provides only written letters with no option for contact information
• Says previous families are unavailable without a clear explanation

Speaking directly with past employers gives you insight into reliability, communication, and long-term performance. Strong candidates understand the importance of this step and are prepared for it.

b) Red Flag Two: Negative Talk About Previous Families

How a nanny speaks about former employers matters. While no job is perfect, and the intimate nature of this industry can sometimes lead to hurt feelings, repeated negativity or blame directed at past families can signal challenges with accountability or communication.

Listen carefully for patterns. A candidate who consistently describes previous families as difficult, unreasonable, or problematic may struggle with conflict resolution. One of the key nanny interview red flags is when responsibility is consistently placed elsewhere and put on others.

Truly professional caregivers can reflect on past roles with balance, growth, and perspective.

c) Red Flag Three: Resistance to a Written Contract

A nanny who is unwilling to sign a contract may not be aligned with a professional household employment relationship. Contracts clarify expectations around pay, schedule, overtime, duties, and time off and help protect both parties. 

If a candidate dismisses the need for a contract or suggests keeping things casual with under-the-table compensation, that should prompt further discussion. Nanny interview red flags often appear when structure and clarity are avoided.

A strong candidate understands that a contract protects both sides and supports a healthy, professional working relationship.

d) Red Flag Four: Overly Scripted or Vague Answers

Confidence is important, but interviews should feel conversational and specific. If a nanny’s answers sound rehearsed or lack real examples, it may be difficult to understand their true experience.

Watch for responses that:

• Rely on buzzwords without details
• Avoid specific age groups or scenarios
• Do not clearly explain past responsibilities

One often overlooked interview red flag is a lack of depth in answers. Yes, it’s a good sign that a candidate has prepared for an interview, especially if they are nervous in that setting. But experienced caregivers should be able to speak comfortably about their day-to-day work, challenges they have handled, and lessons they have learned.

3) How to Use Red Flags as a Tool, Not a Test

Seeing a red flag does not always mean an immediate no. But it does mean it’s time to ask follow-up questions and slow the process down. Interviews should feel like a two-way evaluation built on transparency and trust.

Families who take the time to identify red flags are more likely to make thoughtful, successful hires that last.

Hiring a nanny is a deeply personal decision, but it should also be a professional one. Paying attention to early warning signs helps families choose caregivers who are not only qualified but also aligned with their expectations and values.

A strong interview process creates clarity, confidence, and peace of mind from the very beginning.

Ready to begin your search? Westside Nannies is here to help.