Asking the Right Questions

Au Pair USA’s screening and matching process is designed to help you select the best au pair for your family. You’ll start by reviewing the au pair’s application packet. If the au pair’s application appeals to you, you’ll have the opportunity to interview her or him. This is probably the most crucial point of your decision process—you’ll not only be able to learn about the au pair’s experience and English skills, but you’ll also get a sense of her or his personality.

Because the interview is so important, you should prepare your questions in advance. Feel free to keep a conversational tone, but make sure you cover all your important questions and issues during the interview. You may find the following list helpful as you prepare for your interviews:

Helpful Interview Questions

  • Why do you want to become an au pair?
  • Have you ever lived away from your family before?
  • How do you feel about leaving your family for a year?
  • What did you study in school?
  • How many years did you study English?
  • What type of jobs have you had recently?
  • What do you enjoy most about working with children?
  • Do you drive? How often? Do you have an International License?
  • Do you like pets? Would you be willing to take a dog for walks?
  • Are you a vegetarian? Will you cook meat for the children?
  • Do you smoke? How often?
  • Have you been to the United States before?
  • What is your child care experience? Have you baby sat for kids or worked in a camp or kindergarten?
  • What are the ages of the children you have cared for in the past?
  • How do you discipline children? How were you disciplined as a child?
  • What type of relationship do you have with your family? How do they feel about you coming to America for a year?
  • Would you be happy in our suburban/urban/rural community? What type of area do you currently live in?
  • What type of household chores are expected of you in your home?
  • Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? How do they feel about you leaving for a year? Are they going to visit?
  • What types of hobbies do you have? Do you like sports, travel, swimming, the beach, etc?
  • Do both your parents work?  
  • Do you consider yourself a tidy or messy person? Would you have a problem joining a very messy or very neat household? 

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