Get personal. Asking personal questions that do not have an incorrect answer will help the candidate to relax. This person is going to be living in your house, primarily responsible for your most personal and precious things and you have a right to know if they are married, have children, have a hobby, are in good health, like movies, church or dancing etc. Avoid being too intrusive, but don’t be bashful either. Asking for three qualities they like about themselves will give you great insight into a candidate’s maturity, confidence, personality and level of independence. To help you recall them and introduce them to other members of the family, you may consider taking a polaroid snap-shot or digital picture of them to attach to your check list. (Remember to ask permission prior).

Give a small but significant practical test. For example, if laundry would be a big part of their job, hand the candidate an item of clothing and ask how they would clean it. If they look for the care label and are able to read the laundry instructions you know they are experienced in clothes care. Or give a children’s book and ask them to read a few pages to you. You will immediately find out if the candidate can read English and whether or not they would be capable of helping your child with reading.

Give yourself a time frame in which to make a decision. Allow enough time to interview several candidates, remembering that many will only be available for interviews on weekends. Never make a snap decision, even if one candidate appears to be everything you want. Sleep on it and see several candidates before you offer the position to any one.

Remember the candidate is there to decide if they would like to work for your family too. Be prepared to walk them through the house, show them their living quarters, introduce them to any children or pets they will be responsible for and ask them if they have any questions for you.
If you are prepared to pay over the minimum salary for specific qualities or qualifications, tell them. Take this opportunity after they have answered most of your questions to spell out the personal, ethical and moral qualities you expect from someone living or working in your home. This will let the candidate know you will not tolerate being taken advantage of. Discuss days off, expected work hours and any other expectations or terms of employment such as health insurance and salary.