Applying for Child Care Jobs on Care.com: The Interview

Interview Attire

Dress for the job you want. Parents appreciate professionalism, even though child care jobs require less formal attire compared to office jobs. Before the interview it is a good idea to check your online presence. Make sure your profile picture on any social networking sites, such as Facebook, is professional because parents will check. First impressions can make or break you, so if your appearance causes them to question whether you can take care of yourself, they will think twice about hiring you̵1;no matter how qualified you are.

Here are some tips to help you dress effectively for an interview:

  • Be clean. It̵7;s obvious, but important. Since you will likely be in charge of their child̵7;s hygiene, your own should be exemplary. This means clean and ironed clothes, brushed hair, as if you were giving a company presentation (which, in a way, you are).
  • Look professional, but be comfortable. Remember that you might be playing with a toddler or romping with the family dog! Consider nice pants, a button down shirt or sweater, and flat shoes. A blazer is another option that you can take off when you̵7;re playing with the kids.
  • Keep it simple. We each have our own sense of style, but stay away anything too flashy. A job interview is not the place to experiment, dress like you̵7;re on a date, or flaunt a new look. Parents want to see that you are practical and easygoing̵1;able to walk in the dirt or roll on the floor without worrying about new shoes.
  • Cover tattoos or unusual piercings. You should consider covering them up or taking them out for the meeting. Parents are not just looking for a caregiver, but a role model to their children. That being said, if you won̵7;t feel comfortable covering your body art on a regular basis, by all means, bare it for the interview.

What to Bring

  • Resume. Make sure to include your education, employment history (responsibilities and start/end dates) and relevant child care experience to date. Be specific about your experience and highlight any specialty areas ̵1; if you have training in first aid or CPR, special needs children, twins or multiples, or if you̵7;ve taken any courses or earned any degrees related to care. Also list extra curricular activities related to the industry, such as volunteering, tutoring and camp counseling. Your resume should not only be clear and concise but also demonstrate what makes you a unique candidate for the job.
  • References. It is better to provide a list upfront rather than have the parents ask for them later. Remember, parents have very little time. The most organized and prepared applicant has the best advantage.
  • Work Forms. Ask the employer if they need proof that you are eligible to work in the United States. If you have any other certifications (First Aid or CPR), bring these as well.
  • Driver̵7;s License. For identification verification and if driving is one of the job requirements, you should have this on hand.
  • Activities. Show your passion by bringing examples of special activities you̵7;ve done with kids. This could be a big hit especially if the kids are part of the interview process.
  • Applying for Child Care Jobs on Care.com: The Job Process Overview
  • Applying for Child Care Jobs on Care.com: The Interview
  • Applying for Child Care Jobs on Care.com: Questions To Expect and To Ask
  • Applying for Child Care Jobs on Care.com: Next Steps

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