Whether you’re a domestic employee with years of expertise in a specific role, or you are just starting out and finding the ideal position, it’s important to make a good impression during a job interview. Domestic staffing interviews are often a little bit different than a traditional interview at a large corporation or small business.
It is important to anticipate the types of questions you’ll be asked and ensure you say the right thing to stand out. The same goes for what not to say. Below, we’ll discuss the do’s and don’ts of what you should say in a job interview for your next household staffing position.
The Do’s and Don’ts
Asking Questions
✗ Don’t say: I don’t have questions.
✓ Do say: What kind of person do you envision in this position? What could I do to be successful in this role – in the next three months, six months, or longer?
Why: It’s important to show that you’re curious, interested in the job and want to get to know what the home and the family is like, and how you can put your talents and expertise to good use.
About Your Previous Employer
✗ Don’t say: I didn’t like my last employer.
✓ Do say: I learned a lot in my last job and am excited to embark on a new adventure.
Why: Maintaining professionalism is critical and if you criticize or badmouth your previous employer, it could be a red flag. Focus instead on what things you gained from your last role – even if it was challenging – and talk about how you plan to use what you’ve learned to challenge yourself in a new position.
The Position
✗ Don’t say: I don’t know much about this position.
✓ Do say: I have read through the job description and there are a few things that stand out to me as to how my experience lines up with the job duties/requirements.
Why: If you show up unprepared, it could show a lack of interest or motivation to the employer.
About Your Goals
✗ Don’t say: I don’t have any career goals.
✓ Do say: I have some short-term and long-term goals, and here’s what they are.
Why: Employers want to meet candidates that are motivated, life-long learners. Even if you have decades of expertise in the domestic staffing industry, it’s important to talk about what areas you can continue growing in.
Compensation
✗ Don’t say: Discussing pay and promotion opportunities on the first interview.
✓ Do say: At the second interview, it’s okay to ask about the compensation and benefits being offered.
Why: Bringing it up too soon could come across as greedy or that you’re only focused on the money. Once you know the job description lines up with your expertise and you’re invited back to further interviews, you’re likely being narrowed down as a top candidate and it’s okay to discuss wage details to ensure it meets your expectations.
Areas to Improve
✗ Don’t say: I don’t have weaknesses in my career field.
✓ Do say: I’ve been working on improving XYZ, and I have seen growth in these areas already.
Why: Coming across as arrogant or unteachable could be frustrating for a potential employee. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses and authenticity in an interview opens the door for trust and a connection.
We Can Help
At Household Staffing, we understand how important it is to find a domestic staffing role that aligns with your talents, training, and personality. We recognize that each household and family office offer a unique set of dynamics.
No two roles are exactly the same! That’s why we take the time to get to know our clients and our candidates so we can match them well the first time. You can trust our nearly three decades in the staffing industry, where we have placed thousands of highly trained and specialized individuals in homes and offices around the country.
While it can be a competitive industry to break into, a good interview where you show your true self gives you an edge to stand out. Ultimately, this can increase your chances of securing your dream role. Success starts at the beginning, so take time to prepare well.
Ready to start the process of finding a new job? Contact us today to get started. We look forward to working with you!
