Nannies looking for a new job this year are finding themselves in a unique situation, thanks to COVID-19. Even though your job requires face-to-face interaction, some families may not want to meet you in person unless they\u2019re ready to hire you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s why nanny video interviews are becoming so popular lately. If you\u2019re not used to doing virtual interviews, you may not be as prepared as you\u2019d like. But we\u2019re here to help! We have you covered with some tips and tricks for acing your next video interview below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The background you choose for your video interview will make a first impression on your potential employers, so pick a good one! Find a well-lit spot that\u2019s neat and not too cluttered. A wall with a few bookshelves or art pieces is okay if they\u2019re far from the camera; too close, and they may distract your interviewers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure your computer or laptop is set up so that your head and shoulders can easily be seen. To do that, position your webcam or computer\u2019s camera at about eye level. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now that you have a good spot for your video interview, remember to test everything ahead of time. Check that you have a good quality microphone. Do a couple of voice and video recording tests to see if you need to make adjustments. Also make sure you download the tool you\u2019ll need for the video call, whether Zoom, Skype, or others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be aware of other noises that your microphone will pick up, too. If you picked a busy spot in the family room with pets or other people, or a chair on your back porch where there\u2019s lots of outside noise, you may need to consider a different location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your video interviewing equipment is all set up. Great! Don\u2019t forget to prepare yourself as you would for a regular interview. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be on time, or better yet, be ready to go a few minutes early. Reliability is an important part of being a nanny. Being late for your interview is not the first impression you want to make.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choose an outfit that looks professional and neat. Wear what you would to a regular interview, making sure it\u2019s not just business from the waist up! Also, try on your outfit before the big day. You don\u2019t want to sit down for your interview and find that your shirt has a stain or that your jewelry makes too much noise when you move around. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is not the time to be checking your email or your phone. Switch your devices to Do Not Disturb and turn off alerts on your computer. You don\u2019t want to be distracted by popups or notifications when you\u2019re in the middle of your interview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the best ways you can prepare for a video interview is to treat it as a regular, in-person interview. Review the family\u2019s job description and any notes on their expectations and requirements. They\u2019ll likely ask you questions that are specific to their needs, so it\u2019s a good way to prepare for those questions. For example, if they need care for a child with special needs, be ready to talk about any education or certification you have that would make you the best nanny for the job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Come up with a few questions of your own that you\u2019d like to ask the family, too. Not only does this clarify your role, but it also shows that you are genuinely interested and engaged. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ask a family member or friend to conduct a mock interview with you ahead of time. Use the same platform that you\u2019ll be using for your real interview \u2014 whether that\u2019s Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts \u2014 so you can familiarize yourself with it now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have them take notes on what you look like, how you sound, the lighting and camera angle, the quality of your answers, everything that your interviewers will notice. Are you gesturing too much while you speak? That can cause even more of a video delay, even with a decent internet connection. Are you looking at the image of yourself on screen, or into the camera to make eye contact? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once you know what you need to work on, practice again! You\u2019ll feel more comfortable, confident, and ready for your actual interview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looking for more support and resources from other professional nannies like you? A Perfect Fit is a nanny placement agency based in Phoenix, Dallas, and Denver committed to finding the best match between nanny and family. As a nanny on the A Perfect Fit team, we\u2019ll set you up for success so you can find a family that meets your needs and skills. <\/p>\n\n\n\n