How to Ace Your Virtual Nanny Interview

Lady smiling whilst partaking in virtual interview meeting on laptop

How to Ace Your Virtual Nanny Interview

Virtual interviews became the norm in 2020 when governments around the world introduced social distancing measures to slow the spread of the pandemic.

Now in 2022 there is no doubt that virtual interviews are here to stay, and they actually have some great benefits for the job seeking Nanny. No travel is required so it reduces your costs and you don’t have to worry about getting stuck in traffic. You can attend more interviews increasing your chances of finding your dream job. It’s likely easier to fit interviews around your existing commitments, and you may feel more at ease in a familiar environment.

It’s entirely possible to build great rapport with a hiring family in a virtual interview but it can also be nerve wracking if it’s not something you have done before. Here at Harmony at Home we’ve compiled our top 10 tips to help you ace your Virtual Nanny Interview. Discuss this and other hot topics in our friendly community at London and UK Nannies Community Group

1. Prepare just as you would an in-person interview.
Come to the interview fully prepared. Just as you would a face-to-face interview do your research and have some questions ready. Before the interview take some time to think about what you want to say and have examples of your previous experience ready. Showing you are taking the interview seriously will mean your professionalism shines through.

2. Dress appropriately.

Adopt the same formality that you would in a face-to-face interview. If you’re not sure keep in mind it’s probably better to be overdressed than under. Make sure your appearance is presentable and professional. Large items of jewellery such as statement necklaces sometimes create glare on video which could be a distraction. If you do wear jewellery opt for small items that don’t catch the light. Interviews can be nerve wracking which may mean you sweat. Wearing breathable fabric means you’ll feel more comfortable.

3. Check the background.
Not everyone has the luxury of a dedicated home office space, but most should be able to find a spot that offers a neutral backdrop, free from clutter or anything that may be distracting to the hiring family. Having an organised space will also make a great first impression. If there is a window in the room maximise the flattering benefits of the natural light source by facing towards it, rather than having it behind you (you would likely be a silhouette on screen).

4. Practise with a friend or family member.
This is a particularly good idea if you are new to the software (zoom, teams etc) or video calling in general. You could check which position offers the best visibility, and that you would be comfortable sitting there for a length of time.

5. Check the tech.
With your friend or family member check the software, microphone, and camera in advance. If there are any software updates required install them well before the interview. And be sure to check that the name shown in your software is correct - not a nickname, or one of the children etc!

6. On the day make sure everything is fully charged and/or plugged in.

Have your devices fully charged but ideally the power supply handy too. It is worth having a landline phone nearby. In the unlikely event that the broadband goes down it will provide extra reassurance.

7. Minimise the chance of distractions.
These could be pets – dogs barking or the cat walking over your laptop, a delivery or someone else ringing the doorbell or children in the home. If it is not possible to mitigate these distractions (by having someone take the pets out for example) it’s worth mentioning it to the interviewer in the early stages of the interview.
If your laptop or tablet receives notifications from emails, WhatsApp etc mute all of these in advance of the interview, and silence them on your mobile too.

8. Be a few minutes early and open the software in advance of the interview start time.

Being on time once again demonstrates your professionalism and that you are taking the interview seriously. It will also mean any unexpected glitches can be ironed out before meeting the family.

9. Make eye contact and maximise nonverbal communication such as nods, and smiles.
It might feel strange being unable to offer a warm handshake for instance, but you can still communicate open and receptive body language. Try to look into the camera, rather than at yourself on screen – it’s closer to making eye contact. Smile and gesticulate. Maintain good posture and avoid crossing your arms which can be perceived as disinterested.

10. Be yourself!
Take some time to acknowledge your success at being invited to the interview. The family are clearly interested in you as an employee. If you feel nervous – remember, it may be a new experience for them too. You can let your personality sparkle, just as you would in person.

Good Luck!
Harmony at Home

The information in this article is provided by Harmony at Home and does not represent Morton Michel.