When we asked our au pairs what they looked for in a host family’s profile while matching, they had lots to say. Some au pairs answered the question generally while some looked for more specific pieces of information. Either way, what you do (and don’t) include in your host family profile will definitely impact whether or not your ideal candidate accepts an invitation to join your family. You'll want to point out what an au pair will love about your family and community while also painting a realistic picture of what an au pair can expect once they arrive. The following are some tips for creating a profile that will help you attract an au pair that is right for you.

1. Take time to complete your profile

If there was a common thread in au pairs’ response to our question about what they look for in a host family’s profile it was that they appreciate an application that feels thoughtful and complete. A thorough and sincere profile suggests that a family cares about who their au pair is and about their happiness during their year in the U.S.

2. Be truthful

Au pairs glamorize your situation to attract more au pair candidates. As María, an au pair from Mexico, shares, “If an au pair is put off by your family’s rules, home, or schedule, it's better to have them say no right away." Spend more time looking for a candidate whose expectations and values are more in tune with your own.

3. Upload lots of photos

Au pairs want to see photos of your children, of course. But they also want to see photos of their potential future host parents (that’s you), your pets, your home and the au pair’s bedroom. Photos that express your personality as a family are great to include. For example, if you are a really sporty family, consider including photos of your annual ski trip or a local bike ride. If you are a goofy family, show your sense of humor through a funny photo of yourselves. The more you can “show” a potential au pair what it will be like to live with your family, the better.

4. Describe your family's personality

Describe each family member’s personality and likes and dislikes as well as why you want to welcome an au pair into your home. Au pairs love to hear about their host parents’ interests, careers and backgrounds in addition to information about the children so be sure to include details about you and your spouse as well. You'll also want to talk about how you see your au pair fitting into your life (ie, do you want an au pair who is really going to become a member of the family or do you prefer someone who is a little more independent?)

5. Share some perks you can offer an au pair

Offering materialistic benefits upfront (i.e., unlimited use of a fancy car. expensive vacations with the family) can backfire on families who may find that au pairs are drawn to them for the wrong reasons. But pointing out a few unique benefits au pairs will enjoy during a year with your family is okay to do. For example, if your au pair will not have access to a car off-duty, you can try to offset that perceived disadvantage by sharing the fact that there are at least a dozen other au pairs in your neighborhood who are potential friends and carpoolers. If you have a beautiful pool in the backyard that you love to use, let her know she’ll be using it too.

6. Talk up your community

Families often get frustrated by au pairs who only seem to want to match with families in southern CA or New York City. But those who take the time to point out all of the great things about their own community find that au pairs are easily swayed to travel elsewhere for the right family in another great location. Let au pairs know what they will appreciate about your area.

7. Share a realistic family schedule

There is an opportunity in the profile to include your family’s weekly schedule, and we highly recommend filling this out in terms that are specific as possible. This is especially important if you require your au pair to work more unusual hours such as early mornings, evenings and weekends. Of course, it’s okay if your needs change somewhat once she arrives but it’s best to let candidates know what coverage you anticipate needing upfront because some au pairs are more particular about their on-duty schedule. Learn more about becoming a host family.