Seems like being in a constant state of uncertainty, having to wonder all day long if you're doing everything "right".

Eventually, if you can put up with that long enough, you'll learn how to do everything according to mb whims. And then of course, it changes. Lol.

If there was anything all that important, they should have said so at the first interview.

Anonymous wrote:Do you prefer a nanny who says, "how do you want me to do things?", or "this is how I do things"?

Wouldn't you want a mix of both? I think the best policy and one that has worked well for me is to say "this is how I would usually do x, would you like me to do it differently?"

I think it also depends upon the task and how important it is, also MB's personality. My last MB wanted me to fold the kids clothing a specific way but didn't care how I cooked.

Do you prefer a nanny who says, "how do you want me to do things?", or "this is how I do things"?

I think a good question to ask (especially if interviewing working with a baby/newborn) is if the parents have a specific parenting style they're attempting or want your suggestions.

When I was hiring a nanny I really wanted someone who could tell me how to do things. I knew NOTHING about children and had no clue what I was doing. I wanted someone who would feel comfortable making suggestions about toys, food, soothing techniques, etc. But I know other parents sometimes have specific ideas in mind and just want their rules to be followed.

Why do you want an experienced nanny?

I would totally respect a nanny who was discerning enough to ask questions about my parenting style, most important needs, etc... - a la the list from 14:43 - which is great.

As a mom, I'd also love a nanny who is interested in the kids. What are they like? Is there anything important that I (the prospective nanny) should know about little Johnny or little Dora?

Obviously the questions would vary based on the age of the kids also. For infants you'd want to ask questions about feeding/napping schedules (which would give you an important read on the parenting approach and/or knowledge). You might also ask if there are things that they (prospective employers) are specifically looking for, would like the nanny to help them with, etc...

And maybe just "what kind of nanny will be the best fit for your family?" would get you good info.

Good luck! Just the fact that you're asking for this kind of advice makes me think you'll do great in an interview.

FYI, one nanny I rejected almost immediately, who appeared fantastic on paper, came into my house and started correcting how I had things set-up, "Oh, we'll have to change this." kind of thing. Her interview was short. The nanny who asked me how I wanted her to fold/categorize the babies' clothes was hired. (Not because she was worrying about their laundry per se, but because she was interested in what worked for me, what my system was, etc... rather than trying to prove her knowledge by correcting me.)

15:26 here - I am sure several nannies will say this is the important part and of course it is critical - but OP was asking what MBs like and for me it was a humungous turn-off when the first question out of the nanny interviewee's mouth was just "how much are you paying"?

14:43 - nailed it.

whatever you do, do NOT ask about the pay as the first question off the bat. If you have cause to believe they may not be willing to pay in your range, then say when you accept the interview that your rate is x to y, depending on the job specifics and you look forward to learning more about their needs. Benefits and pay should be the final questions in the interview, not how you open the discussion.

A nanny should ask:

What kind of parenting style you and your husband have.

If children are old enough, how is disipline handled in your household.

She should ask why you are looking for a nanny- especially if you are replacing one.

Do your children have any food allergies?

What are your expectations for nanny to do during the day while children are sleeping?

How long of a commitment are you looking for? Most nannies want a 1-2 year commitment.

She should ask if you are paying on or off the books.

She should show up for interview with a resume, references, and maybe 1-2 letters of recommendation.

Hope this helps and sorry for the confusion in my first post, it's been a long day!

I'm the PP and read your post wrong, my apologies.

Things to address:

-Their experience with children and what specific activities they think are age appropriate for your children.

- Ask why they enjoy working with children

- If they have ever handled a true emergency and if so, what did they do

- Find out if they are comfortable taking care of a sick child. If they will come to work if there is snow. How often they go away on vacation.

- Discuss their long term goals and ask if there is anything in their schedule that could affect the position you are offering.

- 3 great qualities and maybe one flaw (it's always nice when a nanny can recognize something she can improve).

- Discuss any child related tasks you would expect them to do and make sure you are on the same page.

- Discuss the pay, including if you are looking to guarantee a set amount of hours or pay by the hours worked. Also discuss if you are paying on or off the books.

Good luck.

I'm starting the interview process again after a few years, and I'm curious as to what questions MBs like to be asked during interviews. Obviously no one likes a greedy nanny who jumps right into the questions about the compensation package, but what are some things I should address? Thanks!