It goes without saying that when you score an interview for a nanny job you want to bring your A-game. However, even though you’re, technically-speaking, the one in the hot seat, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t come armed with a list of questions of your own. After all, you do want to know what you’re potentially getting into.
“Asking questions is absolutely paramount for nannies during an interview,” says professional nanny of over 30 years Stella Reid, aka Nanny Stella. “Just as the family is deciding if you are the right fit for them, you should be assessing if the family is the right fit for you.”
“Just as the family is deciding if you are the right fit for them, you should be assessing if the family is the right fit for you.”
—Stella Reid, professional nanny of over 30 years
“The interview is time to have radical transparency and open communication,” adds Michelle LaRowe, lead educator at Global Nanny Training, a CACHE-accredited organization.
Wondering what questions you should ask parents during an interview? Here are 21 questions to ask when interviewing for a nanny job, according to Reid and LaRowe:
General questions about the job
- What are you looking for in a nanny?
- What are the hours?
- How long of a commitment are you seeking?
- What are the daily duties?
- What did you like about your previous nannies and what are you looking to change?
- Do you travel? If so, would you require me to travel with you? If not, will there be responsibilities while you are gone?
Questions about the kids
- Do the children have allergies or any other health concerns?
- What does the kids’ typical day look like?
Questions about compensation
Obviously, this is something you — rightly — want to know, but LaRowe doesn’t recommend leading with these questions. “Asking this question before seeing if you are a potential match can be a real turn off to parents who want a caregiver that expresses interest in their children before money,” she explains. “Plus, it’s a moot point if you’re not interested in the job.”
- How do you run the payroll?
- Will you be issuing a W-2 and handling taxes?
Questions about parenting style
- What is your parenting style and discipline philosophy?
- What values do you want to instill in your children?
“If you are a nanny who’s used to running the show, you likely won’t do well in a position that requires you to stay in the house and be micromanaged,” notes LaRowe.
Health questions
- Do you get the flu shot?
- Do you get the COVID shot?
- Are you up to date on other immunizations, including whooping cough?
Questions about home life
- Do you have pets?
- Do you have a pool?
- Is there any other household staff?
- Will I be using my vehicle or yours to transport the children?
- Do you work inside or outside of the home?
Finally, LaRowe recommends asking potential employers if there’s anything they’d like you to know about their family at the end of the interview. “Following this question with a long pause is going to get you answers to questions you would never have thought to ask” she says.
