Low Self Esteem

[Anonymous]

Would you hire an Au Pair with low self-esteem?

We found that we like a lot. She would truly be perfect for our family, but she is open that she has low self-esteem regarding the way she looks, and it may impact her socially (e.g. not wanting to go out).

Actually....in typing this I think I'm answering my own question

But would love for others to weigh in if they've had experience with this.

[Anonymous]

Unfortunately no. I admire that she is so open but it is really hard moving to another country where you know no one and it won't make her mental health struggles easier.
I've seen it even with the most confident girls.

[Anonymous]

Strong Self esteem is actually among the top qualities I look for (and that all my best APs had). Not only is it (in my opinion) an important quality to help the AP adjust but it’s also an important quality that I want my DD to see in a young woman who is caring for her. For me, low self esteem would be a deal breaker (although I give major cred to the candidate for her honesty and self awareness)

[Anonymous]

Nope. 1)Body issues; I'd be worried about them going on some crazy fad diet and passing out while watching my kid, or asking me to buy them some crazy diet food. 2)I'd be worried about who they choose to hang out with. Someone with low self esteem is more likely to attract questionable individuals. In fact, I was just reading about how a host family had an AP with low self esteem, the AP befriended a felon and said felon broke into the HF's car. 3)They will not have the confidence to stand up to children who need to be told 'no" sometimes.

[Anonymous]

We hired one we did not know had a low self esteem. Realized it when she got here. She had an awful overbearing mother. It took her a long time to come out of her shell. She turned out to be the sweetest, most lovely AuPair. This was 5 years ago. For the last 3 years she has come to stay all summer during her school break and is truly a member of our family for life.

We are actually now sponsoring her student visa so she can get her masters here.