Beware of applicants that say negative things about former employers. "The last family I worked for were really strange (mean, strict, etc.)" Human Resource experts suggest that a negative comment about a previous employer can indicate a pattern of hostility toward employers in general. And besides, you want an upbeat, positive person, not someone who's negative and critical.

2torial #0819: Learn2 Find and Hire a Nanny (Continued) Conduct telephone interviews With any luck, you'll have several phone calls in response to your ad. Your best bet is to do a preliminary interview over the phone. You'll save valuable time by screening out people who don't seem appropriate. Ask: Are you available the hours needed?   Is this salary acceptable? (tell them the salary) If those answers are yes, go on to the following questions: What interests you about child care?   What kind of work have you done in the past?   When might you be able to begin work?   Do you have a license and reliable vehicle?   What are your future plans? If you like their answers to these questions, go into some detail about what you expect of the person. Make sure to describe your children and their schedules. Let the applicant know of any special needs of circumstances. If you smoke, let the applicant know, as this may affect their decision.   If the applicant is still interested, ask for several references, preferably from other families the person has provided child care for. Ask for the name of their last employer, and you might ask for a resume, as well. Step 3