AU PAIR HOST FAMILY INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
- Why would you like to become an Au Pair?
- Have you ever lived away from home before?
- Why do you love working with children?
- Describe some of your childcare experience.
- Why do you want to come to America?
- Do you have experience driving? …
- Do you have experience with kids?
Basic Questions for Au Pair Interviews
Below is a list of the more general questions that do not have a particular ‘right answer’. They vary on your/your candidate’s qualifications and expectations.
Do you have experience as an Au Pair before this?
Are you experienced in staying away from home for such a long time?
Have you lived in ____ before, do you like the lifestyle?
Do you have experience in babysitting or mentoring children before this?
What is your personality like, and are you socially active?
Do you have siblings, cousins, or other children that you have mentored?
How was your experience with children and what do you like/dislike about it?
What is your diet or preferred food?
What is your daily routine currently?
Do you have any educational qualifications?
What are your hobbies or activities that interest you?
Are you fluent in the ____ language?
Can you drive, and do you have a license as well?
Can you help children with their academics and homework?
Do you have any expectations from the family?
Work as an Au pair
What precisely are your expectations of me?
How do you see your au pair fitting into your family?
What types of household chores does everyone do in your family?
How many hours will I work a day?
Will I typically work one consecutive shift a day?
Will you need me to work in the morning or in the afternoon?
Will I need to drive? If so, how often?
Will I need to drive the children to school or to their extracurricular activities?
If the children have a school break, what are your expectations of me at that time?
What are the most important rules I should know about?
Describe your perfect au pair. What type of au pair are you looking for?
Are there any expectations for a curfew?
What are your expectations during meal times?
Can I spend my free time away from your home?
After we get to know each other, would I permitted to invite friends and family to visit?
How do you plan to include me in your everyday family life?
What are the rules for using the Internet? (Be mindful that some households have bandwidth limits!)
Will I have access to a computer with an Internet connection?
A love of children is a must for becoming an au pair courtesy of the Murase family
When you speak to a candidate for the first time, remember that they are probably nervous and excited. Speak slowly and tell the au pair who you are. Be specific when describing your family’s circumstances. It is better to communicate honestly with each other so that you both have realistic expectations.
The au pair interview is the best way to really get to know a candidate and to determine if they are the right fit for your family. Cultural Care recommends that you speak with an au pair candidate at least twice, and more if you feel it is necessary to make your decision. The better you get to know someone, the more confident you will feel about welcoming them into your home!
The Neighborhood and the Home
What is your neighborhood like?
What kinds of cultural activities are available in your area?
Are there parks, playgrounds, bike paths, etc. nearby?
What is the weather like?
How would you describe the surrounding environment of your home?
Are there usually other au pairs nearby?
Will I have opportunities to meet up with other au pairs in the neighborhood?
What kinds of transportation will I be using?
How far away are the schools, bus stops, train stations, etc. from your home?
How is my room furnished?
Au pairing is very challenging, but also very rewarding! courtesy of Nina
FAQ
Why do you want to be an au pair answer?
Establish Warm and Strong Relationships. One of the biggest motivations why a young person wants to become an au pair is because they want to establish good relationships with families. It also gives them a safe place to stay as a student or a backpacker who wants to travel to a new country.
What do you say in an au pair interview?
Show your interest and excitement when talking for the first time with your potential Au Pair or Host Family. Let them know that you have read the profile carefully and would like to get to know them better. Ask questions about their lifestyle and hobbies and be sure to share yours as well.
How do you introduce yourself as an au pair?
Personal introduction
I have one daughter who is grown up and she has her family. I would describe myself as an open-minded, hard-working, easy going, dedicated and responsible person. Sometimes I might be shy and a little reserved at first, but that is not something that bothers at all, I am very flexible.
What are good questions to ask an aupair?
Personal questions for the au pair:
- What are your favourite foods?
- Do you have any allergies?
- Do you feel comfortable taking on responsibility in a childcare situation?
- How would you describe yourself? …
- What are your hobbies?
- Is there anything important we need to know about you?
- Do you smoke?
