Returning Home – Who Au Pairs Can Ask For Letters of Recommendation

As you near the end of your au pair program, it’s time to prepare for the next phase of your life. You may be returning to school and/or job hunting. This post will explain who au pairs can ask for letters of recommendation, what to ask for, when au pairs should request them, and what comes next once you receive your references. You may

In both cases, having an updated resume or C.V. and letters of recommendation will be helpful. Upon successful completion of your au pair program, you will receive a completion certificate after returning to your home country, but you should consider requesting reference letters before you depart.

Who Au Pairs can ask for letters of recommendation

Many jobs require that you provide two or three references who can speak to your past performances as an employee. As your employer, your host family is the best place to start. They can speak about your performance in your role as an au pair.

Other responsible adults who can talk about your abilities and attitude might be your professors from your classes, your Local Coordinator, or someone you worked with on a volunteer project while in the U.S. When you decide who you would like to act as a reference, you should always first ask them if they would be willing.

Never list someone as a reference unless they have agreed to act as one. Make sure that anyone you ask to be a reference has had a positive working relationship with you and is willing to help your job search.

What to Request?

Once your reference has agreed, you will also want to give them an idea of the kinds of jobs you are seeking and your career goals. This way, your reference will be better prepared to describe your qualifications. For example, for a child care job or study pathway, your host parents can describe your au pair experience with them.

If your new opportunity requires a certain level of English fluency, your English teacher can explain that. If you are a regular cluster meeting attendee, your Local Coordinator knows your strengths. If you need the letter to say anything specific, such as the dates of your employment or type of experience, be sure to let your reference know to include that information.

To find out more and read some sample Reference Letters visit thebalancecareers.com. You might also consider asking for a recommendation via LinkedIn if you are already a member.

When to Ask?

Now you know who au pairs can ask for letters of recommendation, you should also know it is best to ask for a recommendation letter several weeks in advance to allow your reference enough time to write it. The best recommendation letters usually take longer to write to allow your reference time to list all of your amazing accomplishments.

After You Receive the Letter

Once your reference provides a letter of recommendation, don’t forget to call or send a note of thanks for their time. If your potential employer may need to follow up with your reference, keep them informed. Good luck in your future endeavors!