âMore often than not, checking references ends up being the last step of the hiring process for many nanny employers. After fielding dozens of applications, sorting through a sheaf of resumes, conducting interviews and dealing with the tedium that’s part and parcel of the nanny hiring process, this last step can feel more like a hurdle. Even if you’re already relatively sure that you’re going to hire the candidate in question and feel comfortable with her based on the interview, you’ll still need to make a point of contacting her references. There are almost always things that no one will tell you about themselves, information that you’ll only be able to get firsthand or by going directly to the source. In this case, the only source you really have is the list of former employers and professional references provided by your nanny candidate. Having a prepared list of questions in mind before you start making phone calls can help you direct the conversation accordingly, and get a different perspective on the person who could potentially be caring for your children in the future. These 10 questions can serve as an ideal jumping-off point, though you’ll want to supplement the list with personalized questions that speak to your own unique concerns.