Interview question

[Anonymous]

I set up an interview with a family that lives about a 1/2 hour away. I found them on craigslist and they had no rate listed on their ad, however everything else about the job sounded great so I thought I would apply anyway. Well they liked what I had to say and set up an interview with me right away. Now I'm wondering if I should have mentioned my rate before setting up the interview with them, I just don't want to drive a 1/2 hour and sit through an hour interview only to find out we are on completely different pages with pay. I have a lot of experience and there is a rate I cannot go below. I come from an area where there are definitely a lot of families who would be willing to pay my rate but there are also just as many who believe 5/hr is perfectly fine to offer. Even though the interview is already setup, is there anyway I can send them an email saying these are my rates without completely turning them off. I'm used to finding families on care.com where both parties usually have an idea of what the other expects pay wise. I just don't want to go all the way there and waste their time and my time.

[Anonymous]

I think its completely fine to call or email and ask what their pay range is before the interview. I'd just write and say that you forgot to ask initially and didn't see it in the posting and say you look forward to meeting them. Then if they write back with a range that is completely inconsistent with what you are looking for, then consider canceling the interview to not waste anyone's time.

[Anonymous]

Of course you can. Send them an email that says, "I'm really looking forward to our interview. I did want to let you know that my rate is $xx/hr. I don't want to jump the gun, but I also didn't want you to be surprised!"

[Anonymous]

Should I say my rate or ask them what their rates are?

[Anonymous]

Mb here. Yes you can definitely email and either say you are looking forward to the interview but just wanted to let them know your rate is xx or you can ask what they were thinking their pay range would be. It's silly to waste your time (and theirs too) if it's totally inconsistent with what you want.

[Anonymous]

Another MB here. Yes, it's ok to clarify. I like the approach of saying "I forgot to ask what your pay range would be. My rate is $X/hr, with some negotiability given the full compensation package."

I think it's always smart to allow a bit of negotiability for a family that perhaps you love but are a dollar an hour below your range. If they offer great leave, health insurance benefits, use of a car, commuting costs, etc... then maybe there are ways to make a package more attractive in total even if the basic hourly rate is a little under your preferred level.

Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Another MB here. It's a good idea to clarify. Personally, I'd ask them their rate. If they come in well below what you want, you can cut your losses and cancel. If they are within range, no harm. And, if they come in above, you'd never know if you go first!

[Anonymous]

Op here and thanks for the advice!

[Anonymous]

As a Nanny, I ALWAYS discuss rate during my initial phone conversation.

I don't bring it up immediately, but I do make sure it is discussed before I drive to their home to meet them.

I live in CA where gas is $4.50/gallon now (!) so I want to make darn sure I don't waste my time and gas.
Plus, it also makes sense not to waste the family's time as well.

Since you already talked to them on the phone, I would suggest you send them an e-mail as soon as possible just letting them know that you enjoyed speaking to them on the phone and letting them know that you look forward to meeting them on whatever day you will meet them, but that you forgot to discuss rate with them. Let them know what your rate is and ask them if that is within their budget. If so, great. If not, then thank them for their time and let them know that you simply cannot work for any less than that and wish them luck in finding their new nanny!

I have seen many ads on CL where it is listed, "Rate to be discussed during interview."

I always run from those ads!!

Best of luck to you.