Back-to-school season is just around the corner and schedules are about to get chaotic. Families are looking to hire after-school childminders and full-time nannies, as well as tutors, dog walkers, house cleaners and more. If you’re seeking a new job opportunity, now is the perfect time to update your profile for this peak hiring period.
Before the school year begins, dazzle hiring families with an up-to-date, back-to-school profile that shows off how valuable you can be in their busy lives. But what exactly are the key skills to have on a CV? Here are nine essential tips to ensure your profile stands out to hiring families.
1. Update your availability
Ensure your availability reflects the new school year’s demands. Are you seeking a full-time job or open to a part-time position that fits around a family’s work and school schedule? Can you walk dogs while everyone’s busy during the day? Can you help out a busy family early in the morning or in the afternoon? Highlight your flexibility, such as availability for before-school, after-school and back-up care.
2. Add a high-quality photo
Update your CV with a clear, high-quality photo that projects a friendly, professional demeanour. Families will want to see who they are inviting into their homes to care for their loved ones.
3. Highlight education and certifications on your CV
At this time of year, everyone has school on the brain. Showcase your certifications, degrees or language skills prominently in your profile. Families may value these qualifications for tutoring or assisting with after-school learning.
If you’re looking for a pet-sitting or dog-walking position, mention any classes you’ve taken on how to train a dog or be a better pet sitter. Show them off in your profile.
And if you’re looking for other ways to boost your skill set, sign up for one of these childcare training courses and certifications.
4. Emphasise homework help
When school starts again, families often look for childminders or tutors who can help their children with homework. If you have these strengths, share them in your profile — they’ll catch the eye of any parent in need.
If you’re a nanny or babysitter — even if you don’t have a degree — highlight subjects you’re particularly good at, like maths, English or Spanish, and any interesting tips you’ve learned to help children with their homework. Share any successful experiences you’ve had helping children improve their school grades.
If you have experience with tutoring or teaching, these are also great skills to have on a CV.
5. Showcase your driving skills
Once school starts up again, so do after-school activities. Children’s schedules get very chaotic and parents often need reliable nannies who drive. Highlight your clean driving record or any defensive driving courses you’ve completed to assure parents of your capability.
6. Focus on extracurricular activities
Parents appreciate a well-rounded childminder — someone who can not only help their children with their schoolwork but can also engage them in other activities and help them learn and grow outside school.
In your profile, talk about other activities you’re interested in and why they’re good for families. Share your experience in leading activities like scouts or sports, if you have done so, and how you would be happy to get their children involved. Mention any courses in art, music or child development that you have taken, too.
7. Discuss cleaning and organising experience
If you have skills in cleaning or organising, emphasise them now. Detail your experience with tasks like deep cleaning to facilitate a fresh start, decluttering, organising school uniforms or setting up a homework station to show how you can make a family’s life easier.
8. Highlight food preparation skills
Do you know lots of great recipes for children’s school lunches, quick breakfasts or healthy after-school snacks? Share your favourites. Parents will value a childminder who cares about nutrition and can assist with meal prep.
9. Request reviews
Positive references and reviews can significantly boost your profile. If prospective employers see that your profile is full of positive reviews, you will instantly move to the top of their list of childminders to meet.
With back-to-school season approaching, ask any previous employers to provide reviews on your work, especially your educational and tutoring skills. Even a recommendation from a former teacher can be valuable, showcasing your helpful nature and academic strengths.
By following these tips, you can create an impressive back-to-school CV that attracts potential families and sets you apart in a competitive job market.