Tips for interviewing your au pair: Asking the right questions

Your children are the most important part of your life and you want to know that they’re happy and safe at all times. That’s why, if you decide  to hire an au pair, you have to choose very carefully and the best way to do this is to start by asking the right questions.

When interviewing prospective au pairs you want to find out about their competency, character and personality so prepare yourself by writing down a list of questions.

Here are some suggestions that might help you with the interviewing process.  The best way to interview your au pair is on Skype, so you can speak and see her at the same time.  You can send your questions by email in advance so she’s prepared.

General questions

• Have you worked as an au pair before?
• Have you been in our country before?
• Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? What do they think about you leaving? Would they be willing to visit you?
• What do your parents think about your decision of being an au pair? Do they support you?
• Do you have brothers or sisters?

Competency questions

• Do you like children?
• What kind of childcare experience do you have?
• Have you already been a nanny or au pair? If yes, in which country?
• What other types of jobs have you had?
• What are the ages of children you have cared for?
• What was the longest period you took care of a child?
  How would you manage rude or bad behaviour from the children? How would you discipline them?
• Have you ever been in an emergency situation with a child? How did you handle it?
• How would you comfort a child who is upset?
• What do you enjoy most about working with children?
• Do you have a driving licence and if so how long have you had it? How often do you drive?
• Do you know how to cook?  What do you like to cook?
• What are some of the activities you would plan for my children?
• Would you do housework?
• Can you provide references?
• What did you study in school?

Personality and character questions

• Tell me more about yourself and your family?
• Do you smoke?
• Do you like pets?
• What hobbies do you have?
• Do you like days out?

A good idea is to involve your children in the interview. Let them ask questions – this way you will see how the au pair communicates with them. We hope our tips will help you find the right au pair for your family and are looking forward to know your experience!