For Nannies - Questions to ask during an interview

When you are attend a nanny interview its important you put your best foot forward and present yourself well in order to make a good impression but its important to remember that the interview goes two ways. An interview is an opportunity for the nanny to find out if a family is going to be a good fit. One way to do this is to prepare a list of questions to ask the family beforehand and have them written down.
During the interview allow the family to ask the questions first but make sure you have an opportunity at the end to ask your questions. Here are a selection you can use:

1. What is your discipline philosophy
2. Do you have the children on a set schedule or do you have more relaxed approach?
3. What are the children's favorite activities?
4. What do you like to do as a family when you have some free time?
5. What do you expect of me as a nanny?
6. What are the most important qualities you are looking for in a nanny?
7. How we will communicate on a daily basis?
8. What sort of food do the children eat?
9. What responsibilities will I have?
10. What, if any parenting books have you read/followed?
11. Do the children have any allergies or take medication?
12. Will I be able to take the children out for walks/visits to the park etc.?

Try to avoid asking about money, vacation or benefits during the first interview. If the family like you this can be negotiated but its very off-putting when a candidates first questions are related to financial benefits of the job.
Feel free to print off this list and use it at your next interview. Good luck!