Whether you’re a young person looking for a meaningful cultural exchange, or a family in search of trustworthy childcare support, finding the right au pair match is one of the most important steps in the entire program. A good match leads to positive experiences, long-term connections, and mutual trust—while the wrong one can result in misunderstandings, stress, and even early termination of the placement.
In this article, we share practical tips and recommendations to help both au pair candidates and host families find the perfect match.
For Au Pair Candidates: How to Find the Right Family
🔹 1. Know What You Want
Before starting your search, think about what kind of family and environment you’re looking for. Ask yourself:
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Do I prefer living in a city or countryside?
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Do I feel more comfortable with younger or older children?
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Am I open to doing housework in addition to childcare?
Having clear expectations will help you narrow down your options and avoid disappointment later.
🔹 2. Be Honest in Your Profile
Your profile is your first impression—make it count! Be honest about your skills, experience, and personality. Share your hobbies, your motivation for joining the program, and what kind of family you’re hoping to join.
Tip: Include photos and a short introduction video to increase your chances of being noticed.
🔹 3. Ask the Right Questions During the Interview
The video call or interview is the most important step in the selection process. Prepare a list of questions in advance, such as:
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What does a typical day look like in your home?
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What are your expectations from an au pair?
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What kind of support would you offer during my stay?
Don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions and clarify anything that’s unclear.
🔹 4. Trust Your Instincts
A family can look perfect on paper, but if the communication doesn’t feel natural or you sense something isn’t right, listen to your gut. It’s okay to say no and wait for a better fit.
For Host Families: How to Find the Right Au Pair
🔹 1. Define Your Needs Clearly
Start by understanding your family’s lifestyle and needs:
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How many hours of help do you need per week?
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What tasks will the au pair be responsible for?
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Are you looking for someone more independent or more involved in family life?
Write these things down before starting your search.
🔹 2. Create a Warm and Detailed Profile
Au pairs are more likely to reach out to families that feel welcoming and respectful. Include:
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Photos of your home and family
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A typical weekly schedule
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Your expectations, house rules, and support system
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A short message explaining why you’re excited to welcome an au pair
🔹 3. Conduct Multiple Interviews
Don’t rush into choosing the first candidate that seems suitable. Interview at least 2–3 au pairs to compare personalities, communication styles, and motivation. Video calls are essential to understand if the au pair is a good cultural and emotional fit for your family.
🔹 4. Discuss Important Topics Early
Make sure you cover key subjects during the interview:
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Working hours and responsibilities
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Free time, curfew, and privacy
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Use of car, phone, internet
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Holidays and travel expectations
Be open and transparent about your expectations—this builds trust from day one.
Final Tip for Both Sides: Take Your Time
Finding the right match is not a race. It’s okay to take your time and ask follow-up questions. It’s better to wait a few extra weeks for the right person than to rush into a placement that doesn’t work out.
Conclusion: A Good Match is Built on Respect, Communication, and Compatibility
The success of the au pair program depends largely on the quality of the relationship between the au pair and the host family. By being clear, honest, and open from the start, both sides increase the chances of a fulfilling and enriching experience.
Remember: this is not just a contract—it’s a partnership between people from different cultures who are willing to learn and grow together.
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