If you’ve made your way through the interview process then a trial is a big step in the right direction, but it still isn’t a guaranteed position. Trials can last anything from a morning to a month, and overseas trials are more likely to last longer for obvious reasons. Nanny trial periods are very useful for all parties – nanny, charges, parents and household staff - to determine whether they gel and can work well together.
As the nanny, you get to see the family in their own surroundings and daily life, and get first-hand experience of their routines and values. In most cases a client will pay expenses for a trial, but don’t always assume the client will pay your travel expenses too: check with the client or your agency beforehand.
Here are some things to bear in mind or prepare for when you’re booked in for a trial..
☑ If you have travelled overseas for your nanny trial, make sure you have a quick freshen up in the airport before travelling onward to your prospective employers’ home. Pack a hairbrush, toothbrush and toothpaste and deodorant in your hand luggage and consider whether you’ll need to change your outfit before meeting them.
☑ Be on time - or better still, just a few minutes early! Upon arrival, make a ‘quiet’ note of the type of household and environment you are trialling in. Always approach a trial with professionalism and act appropriately, using the trial setting as a good ‘guide’.
☑ If your trial is a short one (some are just for a morning or a day) think about bringing along something to do with the children which is age-appropriate, or shows that you have made a note of something they are interested in. The children are very much ‘interviewing’ you too at this stage, and you want to be remembered by them for all the right reasons.
☑ You will have met one or both of the parents already but this is your first time meeting your potential new charges, so first impressions count all over again. Lower yourself down to their level and introduce yourself warmly, and make a connection with them by engaging them in some gentle conversation - without overwhelming them.
☑ Be prepared to get stuck in: dress accordingly and be sure to discover beforehand what you are likely to be doing during your trial! Taking account of any planned or outdoor activities, bringing along suitable clothing and footwear with you.
☑ Whilst it is vitally important to establish the children’s present routines and habits, don’t spend too much time chatting to the outgoing nanny or household staff (as this can look nosy/indiscreet) unless you have been advised that this is part of the trial.
☑ Ask questions! From questions about the children - routine, screen time rules, discipline and rewards methods they are used to – to practical things such as where to find a first aid kit and whether the children have allergies.
☑ Share your experiences. Whether you chat to the children about your own childhood or places that you’ve lived and worked, or if you manage to teach them something from your past work experience (ways to say ‘please’ or ‘thank you’ different language, for example) this is likely to impress everyone and prove that you have lots of added value to offer the whole household.
This is ultimately a fantastic opportunity and should be positively embraced! Enjoy this chance to actively discover your potential new charges and to further impress your clients - getting a better feel for the job at hand and chemistry between yourself and the family!
Thus concludes our series of guides to securing your dream job, from CV perfection to triumphing in your trial period. Now let’s find you that perfect new role…!