Tips for Families - How to Make the Most of Your Virtual Interview

Hiring a nanny is a big decision, and a virtual interview is a great opportunity to assess whether a candidate is the right fit for your family. At Dovetail Nannies, we’re here to help you make the most of this important step. Here are some tips to guide you:

1. Prepare the Setting

Choose a quiet and distraction-free space for the interview. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and that your camera and microphone are working properly.

2. Have a Plan

Before the interview, go over the nanny’s CV and any notes provided. This will help you tailor your questions and make the conversation more productive and ensure you’re addressing any gaps that are leaving you with a question mark. Prepare a list of questions to ask during the interview. Consider topics such as their experience, approach to behaviour management, or how they handle emergencies. Having a structure ensures you cover all the points that are important to you and your family. 

3. Set the Tone

We’re all about making sure that we facilitate great matches here at Dovetail Nannies. Creating a friendly atmosphere during the interview will help the nanny (and you) feel at ease, allowing you to get a better sense of their true personality.

4. Ask Open-Ended Questions

Encourage the nanny to share detailed answers by asking open-ended questions. For example, instead of “Do you have experience with toddlers?”, try “Can you tell me about your experience caring for toddlers and the activities you’ve found work well for them?”

5. Share Your Expectations

Be clear about your family’s needs and values. Discuss your children’s routines, any specific skills or qualities you’re looking for in a nanny, and what a typical day in your household looks like. 

7. Observe Communication Skills

Pay attention to how the nanny communicates. Are they clear, confident, and engaging? Strong communication is essential for building a positive working relationship.

8. Address Logistics

Take some time to discuss practical matters, such as working hours, responsibilities, and salary expectations. Clarifying these details early can help avoid misunderstandings later.

9. Reflect and Follow Up

After the interview, take some time to reflect on how the conversation went. Did the nanny’s values and approach align with your family’s needs? Whether you’re interested in moving forward or not, reach out promptly to share your feedback with us - feedback is key to ensure we are presenting candidates who truly reflect exactly what you’re looking for. 

Best of luck!