Interview techniques

Make sure you know the details about the position:

• name of the family, full address and contact telephone number
• ages and gender of the children and their names if possible
• hours of work and numbers of evenings babysitting
• sole/shared charge
• duties
• children's interests and activities
• pets in the home
• children's dietary requirements
• any allergies/special needs
• start date and length of employment
• accommodation if residential
• is a car driver essential and if so do you have use of car on/off duty

Take with you to the interview:

• your C.V. and references neatly presented
• original copies of your certificates/first aid
• do prepare interview questions - the more enjoyable and interesting you make the interview the better impression you will make

Do:

• Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the interview
• Telephone the family and/or agency if you have to cancel or are running late
• Look presentable, neat and tidy and don't forget to smile - first impressions count!
• Let someone know where you will be for the interview
• Keep the agency informed of any interviews
• Show an active interest in the family, especially the children - play with them, rather than money being the first question
• Have a positive attitude and do not be derogatory about past employers
• Turn your mobile off during an interview!
• Retain receipts from travel expenses - most families are happy to cover reasonable travel costs from out of town. This should be arranged and agreed before the interview takes place
• Discuss salaries and holidays etc. at the end of the interview rather than being the first question of the interview! Alternatively refer the questions to the agency