How to Ace Your Initial Nanny Interview: Expert Tips from the Select Sitters team

At Select Sitters, we know that behind every great nanny placement is a confident, prepared caregiver who knows how to shine during the interview. When families meet you for the first time, they're not just reviewing your resume; they're imagining you as part of their home and their child's daily life.

Here are our top interview tips to help nanny candidates make a strong, lasting impression and land the right job with the right family.

1. Research the Family Before You Join the Zoom Meeting

We always provide our candidates with background information before an interview, including, ages of the children, household dynamics, family routines, and any specific needs. Take time to review those details carefully.

💡 Agency Insight: Mentioning the children’s names or their favorite activities during the interview shows the family that you’re invested and paying attention.

2. Dress Professionally, Yet Practically

You don't need to wear a suit, but your outfit should be clean, neat, and appropriate for working with children. Think "polished but playful"; something that shows you take the job seriously but are ready to engage with children.

👟 Our Advice: Avoid overly casual attire; you want to put your best foot forward in the initial interview.

3. Let Your Experience Speak for Itself

Families love to hear real stories that highlight your skills. Whether it’s calming a toddler during a tantrum or organizing a structured activity for multiple kids, share specific examples that demonstrate your strengths.

🔥 Agency Tip: Talk about outcomes—how your approach helped the child grow, learn, or feel more secure. Avoid talking negatively about a past family by turning the negatives into positives, or simply leave those out; no one wants to feel like their nanny may speak poorly of them if hired.

4. Prepare for Practical Questions

Here are a few potential questions you may hear during your interview

• “What would you do if the baby won’t stop crying?”

• “How do you handle screen time?”

• “How do you communicate with parents about daily routines?”

• “What do you consider the most challenging part of being a nanny?”

• “What would you do if my child were seriously hurt?”

• “What do you think children like best about you?”

• “What is your view on discipline?”

🛠 Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to give clear and confident responses.

5. Ask the Right Questions

Families appreciate when a nanny shows genuine interest in how their household runs. This also helps you decide if it’s the right environment for you.

Great questions to ask include:

• What does a typical day look like for the children?

• How do you like to communicate with your nanny?

• What are the top qualities you are looking for in a nanny?

• What are some goals or milestones you hope for your child to achieve? Are there things your nanny can do to help your child meet and/or exceed those goals?

• Do you have a certain style of discipline or schedule that you follow with your children?

7. Send a Thank-You Note

A short, thoughtful message after the interview goes a long way. Thank the family for their time, express what you enjoyed about the conversation, and reiterate your interest in the position.

📧 A good follow-up sets you apart and leaves a warm final impression.

Final Thoughts from the Select Sitters Team

We believe that the best nanny-family matches are built on trust, communication, and compatibility. A strong interview is the first step in building that foundation. If you’re working with us, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from interview prep to contract

negotiation.

Need help practicing for your next interview? Contact our team today—we’re here to support you every step of the way. 🌟