Interviewing a Care Giver

This may be the first time you're hiring someone to work for you, unless you've had personnel experience at work. It's natural to be a little ill at ease at first when you begin the process, but keep in mind that the person being interviewed will in most cases be nervous too.

• Begin with small talk to get acquainted. In an initial phone call, introduce yourself, describe your child, and briefly state your needs. If appropriate, set-up an appointment. Have your child with you at any interview to see how your baby interacts with the respective caregiver.

• Pose open-ended questions to gain insight into the person's values. Ask about other children she's cared for, what she's found most difficult, her feelings or policies about spanking, bottles, pacifiers, even toilet training. Don't hint at your own feelings initially, or you may just be told what that person thinks you want to hear.

• If this person will be caring for your child in your home, outline the terms of employment. And do make a point to check your sitter's references afterwards.

• If you know, however, at the end of the interview that you do not want to hire this person, it's okay to say politely, "Thank you, but I don't think this would be the right arrangement for me."

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