Make the conversation clear and fair
A nanny interview should help both the family and the candidate decide whether the role is a good fit. Explain the children’s ages, daily routine, location, working hours, duties and any live-in or live-out expectations before asking detailed questions.
Use a similar set of role-related questions with each candidate. Listen for clear examples rather than expecting a single perfect answer, and leave time for the candidate to ask about the household and the terms of employment.
Ask about relevant childcare experience
Questions about real situations reveal more than a general question about whether someone likes children. Ask candidates to describe the ages of children they have cared for, their daily responsibilities and how they handled changes to a routine.
- Can you tell us about your experience caring for children of this age?
- How do you keep children engaged while following the family’s routine?
- How would you handle a disagreement about a household instruction?
- What information would you share with us at the end of a working day?
Discuss safety and judgement
Describe situations that could realistically arise in your home and invite the candidate to talk through their response. For example, ask what they would do if a child became unwell, an approved pick-up person did not arrive or they needed to contact you urgently.
Explain your rules for supervision, visitors, outings, food allergies, photographs and phone use. Ask whether the candidate has questions about these boundaries. Check references and any relevant screening information with the candidate’s knowledge; an interview alone is not a substitute for appropriate verification.
Be direct about duties and working terms
Clearly separate childcare from any additional household duties. If the role includes meal preparation, school collection or child-related laundry, describe the frequency and timing. Ask whether the candidate is comfortable with the agreed duties and invite them to raise any concerns.
Discuss the expected schedule, compensation, days off, start date, transport or accommodation arrangements, and how extra hours or schedule changes will be handled. Put the final terms in writing and check current Kenyan employment requirements. Clear terms help prevent misunderstandings after the placement.
Use a consistent decision process
After each interview, record how the candidate’s experience matches the role requirements, what references or checks remain to be completed and any follow-up questions. Avoid making decisions based on irrelevant personal characteristics; focus on the responsibilities and requirements of the job.
Before the first day, prepare emergency contacts, household routines and a child handover plan.