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When you score an interview for a nanny job, you want to bring your A-game, of course. But even though you’re the one in the hot seat, you should still come armed with a list of questions of your own — you do want to know what you’re potentially getting into, after all.
“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.”
Michelle LaRowe, lead educator at Global Nanny Training, adds: “The interview is time to have radical transparency and open communication.”
Wondering what to inquire about the first time you meet with a family? Here are 21 questions a nanny should ask during the interview, broken down by section, according to Reid and LaRowe.
Key takeaways
- When interviewing for a nanny position, it’s essential not only to present yourself well but also to ask thoughtful questions to determine if the family is a good fit for you.
- Experts emphasize open communication and encourage nannies to ask about job expectations, parenting styles, pay structure and family dynamics.
- By asking the right questions, you can gain valuable insight into the role and ensure a mutually beneficial working relationship.
General questions you should ask 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 to gain insight on the kids
- Do the children have allergies or any other health concerns?
- What does the kids’ typical day look like?
“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
Questions you should ask about pay
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 that offer insight about their 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.
Consider asking these health-related questions
- Do you get the flu shot?
- Do you get the COVID shot?
- Are you up to date on other immunizations, including whooping cough?
General questions about the family’s 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.
