Developing Interview Skills
Like a job interview, the home-owner interview is very
important.
Typically, homeowners will have a shortlist of 3 or 4
candidates from which they will select their houseminder
- and remember, there can only be one winner.
Experience has shown that candidates improve their chances
of being selected if you follow some simple rules:
Be flexible
When arranging an interview time. Suggest that you
will come to the home for an interview (this saves the
owner time and gives you a chance to see the property).
Be honest
State your reasons for wanting to be a houseminder, whatever
they are - honesty is always appreciated.
Be interested
Take an interest in the home and its surroundings. Owners
want to know their most precious asset is in good hands.
Don't be shy
State clearly what you bring to the arrangement
- ie. you are reliable, love pets, have tended
many gardens, will keep the dog exercised and the cat
fed. Owners want to be confident that you can care
for their home and belongings, so don't be too modest.
Engage their pets
For owners with pets it is important that at the interview
you are attentive and show interest in their pets. Owners
are very particular about their pets and are looking for
an obvious rapport between you and their companions.
References
It is a condition of selection that all minders have first
class references, both written and verbal. Be prepared
to offer these to the homeowner.
If you haven't houseminded before, don't worry. While
useful, previous houseminding experience is not as important
in selection as good professional or personal character
references.
Police Checks
It is strongly advised that you get a police check done
on yourself. This gives peace of mind to home owners
and gives you a greater chance of being selected. Click here for
more information. |