Well, I guess you could sue me for “false advertisement” because I really only know how to get one job. My current job: a nanny. Although I’m sure with enough French language ability, perfectly presented resumes, whining to your friends “networking,” bribery, awkward miscommunications, lost sleep, fake smiles, real smiles, handshakes, hand sanitizer for your hands after the hand shakes, and just a pinch of luck (read: job experience), you could land almost any job in Paris. It really is a city full of opportunities. But alas, I fail in most of those categories. So let’s stick with what I do know.

French. Real Smiles. Job Experience.

French:

The listing for my current position asked that I have a “good knowledge of English” or a “basic understanding of French.” Thankfully I had both. Luckily for you, you don’t have to know French. THAT’S RIGHT. Being a native English speaker (something most of you reading this didn’t really have a choice over) is a competitive asset! HIGH FIVE!

Real Smiles:

After messaging with several potential families, we proceeded to the interview phase. My recommendations (some from experience, some are common sense) for a successful interview:

• To avoid a dry mouth, have a glass of water near by, but not in view of the camera. Deep breaths. Remember it’s an interview, not an interrogation. 😉
• Check the lighting by doing a test Skype with a friend or relative a couple minutes before the scheduled interview time. Avoid sitting in front of a window, as it will light up your silhouette and leave your face shadowed.
• USE THE BATHROOM beforehand. The last thing you want to do is interrupt the flow of conversation with a “Euh, est-ce que je peux utiliser les toilettes?” (can I use the toliet real quick) Yeah. Doesn’t go over well.
• Have a written list of 5 things about yourself to refer to that you have not already mentioned while messaging with the family. They want to get to know you!
• Dress nice casual, but don’t over do it. I had an interview where the potential employer wore business attire and another where they had just come back from running. Try to find a happy medium.
• If you aren’t meeting the children during the first interview, ask about them. And if it feels right, ask when you can meet them. The parents want to be reassured that you have an active interest in the well-being of their children.
• Have a notebook and a pen at hand’s reach to jot down important info regarding your potential contract (working hours, wage, benefits, etc). It helps keep all the families sorted.
• SMILE. This is essential. If you don’t seem happy, who is going to want to hire you? Let your countenance show that you are someone worth considering.

Job Experience:

I should probably clarify my title. Although I often refer to myself as a nanny, I’m technically an “au pair.” The difference being, nannies are trained in their profession. My contract states that I will look after the children in exchange for food, housing, and pocket money (among other responsibilities and benefits). That being said, I am highly qualified (in my opinion) for this position. Most au pair profiles list their job experience as extensive babysitting or having younger siblings. Very valid points. I too mentioned babysitting, although my strongest assets were teaching English in Russia, three summers of being a camp counselor, and 7 months experience working full time in a daycare (1:15 teacher student ratio). I feel very comfortable working with children and I’m confident in my ability to supervise them. If you’re worried that your experience might not be enough, look at doing one of those. Two of the three (Russia was volunteer work) pay! Which means you’re working towards your goal AND getting paid. #2016Resolutions

 

In summary, landing the job was not overly difficult. Sorting out the paperwork/travel details and getting my suitcase to shut were the real challenges. If anyone has any remaining questions regarding my job or how I moved to Paris, feel free to contact me or check out my FAQ here 🙂 Living in Paris was just one of the ways I afford to travel – check out my other tricks to save money here.

Until next time. xx