PREPARING FOR AN INTERVIEW

A PARENT’S FIRST PHONE CALL:

· Answering the phone (tone of voice you use)

· Explain a little about your self and your program

· Give them 2-3 benefits of why they should choose you

· Indicate the size day care you operate

· Discuss your work hours

· Setting up a time they can observe your day care

· Ask them what they want from their child care provider

· Provide phone numbers to other day cares

Prepare an interview book. A three-ring binder works well to organize your documents and thoughts and helps keep you on track during the process. Things to include:

· Policies and contract

· Forms the parent must fill out

· MN rules for day care

· Child adult ratio sheet

· Permission to administer form

· State food enrollment form – monthly food planner

· Monthly and yearly day care receipt

· Tentative daily schedule

· Samples of training certificates or log

· Letters of recommendation and photos

· Art projects made by children

Interview timing

· During business hours

· After hours

Interview length

· Approximately one hour

· Allow enough time not to rush the parent or yourself

Preparing for parents arrival time

· Give yourself enough time to change clothes

· Check home to be clean and clutter free

· Set out age appropriate toys for visiting child

· Know yourself and feel good about what you offer

Organizing interview material

· Make a list of important things to ask parents

· It’s a good time to change rates, policies, or contract forms

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