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South Africa Au Pair
The Hiring Process: Red Flags to Watch Out For
Are you a parent considering hiring a Nanny, Housekeeper, Au Pair, or Cook to support your family? In today’s blog, we’ll discuss some red flags to watch out for when reviewing au pair candidates’ resumes and offer tips to ensure you make the best decision for your family’s needs.
1. Beware of CVs Mentioning Agency Work
One of the first things you may notice when reviewing au pair resumes is whether the candidate has listed experience working with an agency. While this may initially seem like a positive, it’s important to look into it more.
Tip: Do not trust a candidate solely based on their agency experience. Instead, always call the agency listed on their resume to verify their employment history and inquire about the circumstances surrounding their departure.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
– Why is the agency no longer working with this candidate?
– Have there been any concerns or issues raised during their time with the agency?
2. Verify Employment History with Direct Employers
Verify the candidate’s employment history directly with the families they worked for. While some candidates may provide references, it’s important to make sure these references are from direct employers rather than agency representatives.
Tip: Always ask the candidate for the names and contact information of the families they worked for directly. These families can provide valuable insights into the candidate’s performance, reliability, and compatibility with your family’s needs.
3. Look for Consistency and References
When reviewing a candidate’s resume, pay close attention to the consistency of their employment history and the presence of references to back up their previous work experience. Be wary of candidates who frequently use agency names on their CV without providing verifiable references or proof of successful placements.
Tip:Take the time to consult with any agencies listed on the candidate’s resume to confirm the details of their employment history and about their track record with previous placements.
4. Trust Your Instincts
The decision to hire an au pair is an important one, and you must try to trust your instincts throughout the hiring process. If something feels off or if you have any doubts about a candidate’s credentials or suitability for the role, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or seek additional information.
Tip: Listen to your intuition and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions or request further verification if necessary. Your family’s safety and well-being is most important.
Conclusion
Hiring can be a wonderful opportunity to provide your family with much-needed support and assistance. However, approach the hiring process with caution and carefully vet potential candidates to ensure they are the right fit for your family’s needs. By being mindful of red flags such as agency work on CVs and taking steps to verify employment history and references, you can make a decision that brings peace of mind and security to your household.
