Interview processes have twofold nature: first, it highlights whether an applicant is fit for a particular job and second, it also shows if the job is fit for the applicant’s family.
First impressions in every interview process are the most crucial aspects. Employers base primarily on how first impressions are given by each applicant so it is always important for the candidate to leave a lasting one.
Julie Macon, a mother of two and an employer said that she could easily determine the right caregiver for the family. Most of her assessment was done during the first part of the interview especially on how the candidate acts professionally and courteously.
Allie Borgeson, a professional nanny affirms that there are certain strategies on how to make a good result out of an interview especially in the caregiving sector. Being prepared for an interview gives the candidate the capacity to handle the process.
Here are some tips worthy of consideration to help with an interview process. The tips are provided under two categories: phone interview and in-person interview.
Phone Interview
Usually, an employer will schedule a phone interview upon assessing the application. It is in this part that each party could have an opportunity to know each other.
Jeannette George, a professional nanny said that before she proceeds with the in-person interview, she gives herself time to know the family.
Part of such activity is knowing the family profile if they have one. It is in this part as well when she ensures her safety.
Here are the things usually discussed during a phone interview:
· Offered services: In the caregiving sector, it is always important to mention one’s credentials. This particular matter is important to highlight since it gives away the qualifications as well as the strengths of the candidate.
· Salary: Considering that caregiving is a professional job, it is important as well to qualify and talk about the salary range. This particular matter would be the deciding factor for each party.
· Non-negotiable matters: This matter would be the discussion about the limitations of the role.
· References: Although some employers ask for references of experience during the in-person interview, this matter should be prepared beforehand to avoid rushing. References are important because it gives the employer a testimony about one’s credibility.
In-person
If the phone interview was successfully done, the employer will schedule a follow-up, in-person interview. This particular interview is usually casual as compared to an average job interview. It is recommended nonetheless for the candidate to dress professionally.
Usually, for child-care interviews, family members will give some time for their children with the potential nanny to determine if they are comfortable with one another. Hence, the candidate should wear comfortable clothes.
Plan to spend one hour or more with the family. It is important to come to the venue 10 to 15 minutes early to give an impression of enthusiasm and seriousness about the job.
Also, it is recommended to bring the portfolio of the candidate:
· CV
· Certificates or diplomas
· References with contact details
· Printed vetting form
· Questions to be asked from the employer
Observe courtesy upon introduction and throughout the interview process. Give the employers their respective discretion on how they want the whole process to go on.
What questions are usually asked in an interview?
Here are some of the most common questions asked in an interview:
Questions regarding experience:
· Caregiving experience
· Years of experience
· Ages ranges of recipients of care
· Preferences
Questions regarding activities:
· Activities usually are done
· Willingness to perform activities outdoors
· Free-time activities
Questions regarding discipline:
· Personal routines
· Problems with previous employers
· Handling challenging instances
Questions regarding safety:
· Emergency management
· First aid skills
· Experience with people who have allergies
· Willingness to be vetted
The provided list does not cover it all. One should take these as the broader aspects that may encapsulate other specific matters to be asked during the interview. Besides, the candidate should be able to clarify ambiguous questions during the interview.
What kinds of question that a candidate could ask during an interview?
The candidate is also interviewing their prospective employers. Considering this, the candidate should be able to come prepared with questions and ask them whenever opportune.
Here are some of the kinds of questions that could be asked:
Questions regarding the role:
· Family routines
· Work duration per week
· Job expectations
· Roles in caregiving
· Petty cash provision for activities
· Contact lists in cases of emergency
Questions regarding the child, elderly or pet:
· Medical conditions
· Chores or responsibility of the child
· Activities or hobbies
· Nicknames
· Unusual habits
· Preferred behavior reinforcement
· Behavioral issues
Questions regarding consolidating with the family:
· Cultural, political or religious preferences
· Discipline issues
· Rules about telephone, television and internet use
These questions shall be considered as it gives the candidate an established foundation with the family and the working conditions. Having an adequate response from each would be an advantage for the candidate in the long run.
Follow-up
Don’t wait around after the interview. Send a thank you message immediately to express your appreciation with their company. Whenever, asked to send additional documents, maintain an elegant reply with the closing line, “Looking forward to hearing from you.”
Also, avoid being idle after the interview process. Keep on applying for other positions. This could help the candidate sharpen their skills in dealing with such interviews. It is recommended for the candidate to educate oneself with up-to-date childhood or elderly care references or approaches.
If the employer finally offered the job, make sure the contract is preferable. Ensure that the appropriate contract should be given covering the significant aspects of the post. Aside from all the technicalities, the candidate should be able to enjoy the position.
