Prepare the role

Summarise duties, hours, budget, start, household, care need and non-negotiables on one page.

Behavioural questions

Ask for real examples involving routine, conflict, lateness, emergencies and feedback.

Questions about duties, time off and the household are a positive sign; answer openly and consistently.

With permission, verify dates and duties. A document alone never guarantees performance or safety.

If used, agree duration, payment, duties and assessment criteria in advance.

Conflicting information, vague promises, document pressure, unexplained payment or anyone feeling unsafe are reasons to pause.

A consistent interview plan, references, documents, trial arrangements and warning signs when comparing caregivers.