Our dedicated, professional staff are one of the many things that set us apart. Senior Placement Coordinator Nicole Collins is passionate about her job, and with 16 years of experience in different areas of our placement division, she brings a wealth of knowledge to each family she works with. Read more from Nicole about her role, and the three pieces of advice she gives to families throughout the placement process.
Please describe your role at Au Pair in America.
I am the Senior Placement Coordinator and I have been with the company for 16 years. First as the Au Pair Coordinator, then as the Host Family Registration Coordinator and finally as Placement Coordinator. This range of experience has really helped me understand all aspects of the placement process, and better assist families and au pairs.
What are common questions families have and what is your advice?
One of the biggest questions a host family brings to the table is “How do I know if I am picking the right girl?” and how many au pairs should they interview.
I have three pieces of advice I usually give to a host family.
First is go with what you are feeling. If you think she is the right person for your family, she probably is. You do not have to interview 10 au pairs to know that the first one you interviewed was the best choice for you. Have faith in what your gut is telling you.
The second is make up your own mind when it comes to who would make a good au pair for your family. Every family is different.
The third is if an application even sparks your interest, reach out to the au pair. The application is what gets you to call the au pair. The phone interview is what makes the match!
What do you enjoy about your job?
Au Pair and America and AIFS provides such a great atmosphere. I can’t say enough about my coworkers and what a great team we all are.
And the cultural exchange aspect as well. Cultural Exchange gives us the ability to understand. It helps to educate. And in the world we live in today, it’s more important than ever. One of my favorite emails I received from a host family was very brief, but said it all. The host mother was thanking me for helping her find their last au pair and what a great year they all had.
But she did not say thank you for helping us find our au pair, she said “thank you for helping us find our sister.” This is why I love my job.
We are available 7 days a week to answer your questions and discuss your child care needs. Schedule a consult with us at a time that’s convenient for you, or view au pairs available now on our website.
