Nannies – How to impress in an interview

If you have discovered your dream Nanny job and have an interview scheduled, discover our top tips to show off and impress your perspective employers.

One of the main aims of an interview is to show off and impress to your employers.

It is no secret that going for an interview can be stressful and frightening. To limit this stress, it is a good idea to get prepared before hand and organise all the essentials that you will need.

What you bring to your interview will signal to your potential employers your organisational skills, which are very important for being a Nanny.

Many nannies decide to create a Nanny Portfolio to showcase themselves. This is a great way to store all your certificates and documents and is sure to impress. So, grab a ring binder and a few plastic wallets, and get organising.

What you should keep in your Portfolio?

Your CV

First of all, the most important pieces of information to be displayed, should be your CV.

It is especially important to maintain your CV and keep it up to date. Your CV should clear, concise and easy to read. Yet that being said, make sure all your experience is listed. Include past and current work placements, work experience and any temp/ short term positions.

Top Tip – Keep multiple copies of your CV in your portfolio as some employers like to keep a copy of it.

Certificates

Clearly display your Qualification Certificates that you have obtained. These may be from qualifying as a Nanny, Maternity Nurse, or even as a teacher.

In addition, don’t forget to display those especially relevant certificates from courses you have been on.

These may include:

• Paediatric First Aid
• Safeguarding
• EYFS
• E-Safety
• Food Hygiene/ cooking
• Sleep Training
• Nanny Training
• Babysitting
• Child protection
• Domestic Violence
• Lone Worker
• Nanny Driving

ID Documents

It is also a good idea to keep a photocopy of your passport and drivers license in your portfolio. Many employers like to see these documents.

Top Tip – Keep a photocopy of these to give to employers.

Other Documents

Don’t forget to include other documentation including:

• DBS
• Ofsted Registration
• Drivers license
• Insurance – Nanny or driving insurance

Outstanding References

In addition to displaying your certificates, show your references from previous employers. Including your references gives new employers the ability to gain an understanding of your performance and work ethic.

Top Tip – It is recommended to display them in date order to make it as easy as possible for employers to read.

If you don’t have a written reference from your employer, make a note of their contact details. Almost all Nanny Agencies like to obtain their own references anyway.

Show Off!

Finally, don’t forget to showcase your previous work.

Consider: What makes you a stand out Nanny? Why should you get this position? What can you bring to the table?

Make a note of previous craft activities, recipes and activities that you like to do. Show off what makes you unique, and why an employer should therefore employ you.

So, nannies, don’t forget to get organised and put together a portfolio. Gather all your documents and display in a folder or organiser.

Written by Emily Martin for Harmony at Home Limited. All Rights Reserved, 2018