nannies: how to stand out in a sea of candidates
As a placement coordinator for Nashville Nanny Agency, I conduct a lot of interviews every week. And, as you might expect, after a while, candidates can all start to blend together. But a few days ago, I was asked a question by a candidate that really stood out to me: "What is something I can do to stand out to you?"
I thought this was an excellent question because it shows that the candidate is proactive, serious about their job search, and eager to learn. Moreover, it gives me an opportunity to give them some useful advice before the interview.
So, what is the one thing that makes a nanny candidate stand out to me? It's the level of professionalism they bring to the interview. Unfortunately, I see a lot of candidates who don't take the interview process as seriously as they should, and this lack of professionalism can be a big turnoff.
To make a great impression during the interview process, there are a few things you can do:
Be punctual. Being on time is crucial. Plan to arrive a few minutes early to give yourself time to compose yourself and get settled before the interview begins.
Dress appropriately. It's important to look neat, clean, and put together. You don't need to wear a suit, but avoid wearing anything too casual, like sweatpants or flip-flops. My preferred nanny interview outfit is a neat, solid colored blouse/button down with a pair of dark color/black jeans, and simple flats. Wear 'one level up' of what you might wear on the job and make sure your outfit is polished, but not too stuffy.
Speak clearly and confidently. Show enthusiasm for the position you want and make sure you can articulate your past childcare experience and what you're looking for in a job. Be prepared to answer questions about your childcare style, the type of families you work well with, and any other relevant topics.
Research the agency and make sure you meet its minimum requirements. Familiarize yourself with the agency's available positions and services. Make sure you have written down any positions they have listed so you are prepared to discuss why you would be a great fit for the families you are interested in.
Be prepared to discuss references and any red flags on your resume. If there are any gaps in your employment history, or if you've had any job changes that might raise questions, be prepared to explain them. Honesty and transparency are important, and it's better to address any concerns upfront than to have them come up later on.
Be prepared to ask questions. If you're not sure what questions to expect during the interview, don't hesitate to reach out to the agency and ask. Most agencies will be more than happy to provide you with a list of questions or other interview tips.
Follow up after the interview. After the interview, send an email to the agency to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and let them know in writing which positions you want to pursue. This helps to reinforce your interest in the job and shows that you're thoughtful and polite.
Be patient and continue following up. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t immediately hear back. The agency might really like you as a candidate but they might not have the perfect position for you at this time. Typically, when we don’t immediately move forward with a candidate it’s not a “No” but more of a “Not right now”.
By following these simple tips, you can demonstrate a high level of professionalism and increase your chances of making a great impression during the interview process. And remember, if you're not sure about something, don't be afraid to ask! We want you to be as successful as possible, and we're here to help you find that perfect family.