Many young adults who become an Au Pair in the U.S. get the opportunity to live abroad, improve language skills, and experience a new culture. Young adults thinking about joining the Au Pair experience may not realize that is just the beginning of not only a life changing experience but skills they can gain for a global career.
Au Pairs in the U.S. gain strong skills that employers around the world valueIn this article we will explore the real world development that Au Pairs gain that last long after the program ends.
Develop multi cultural communication skills
Communication is a key skill for Au Pairs as they navigate a new culture and language they may not be used to speaking every day. Internationally English has become widely spoken throughout global business. Au Pairs fully immerse themselves in the English language from the moment they arrive in the U.S. and in their daily life.
Not only do Au Pairs need to communicate effectively with their Host Family but they learn to navigate every day conversations in day to day life in their community. From conversations with their Host Family to a trip to the store, this unique opportunity to communicate with so many different people across the U.S. gives Au Pairs a leg up on their resume that employers won’t be able to ignore.
70% of our Au Pairs say improved English and communication skills will benefit their future careers
Gain independence and confidence
Many Au Pairs coming to the U.S. are leaving their home country for the first time or have never lived away from home. Au Pairs must manage new routines, solve problems daily, and adapt to changing plans. From handling unexpected childcare situations to adjusting to different cultural norms Au Pair learn how to adapt quickly.
These problem solving skills help Au Pairs become more confident and independent each day. Many employers are looking for individuals that can think quickly in fast paced work environments, Au Pairs will be used to thinking on their feet giving the confidence needed to succeed in any work situation.
"My Au Pair experience will help me in the future because it taught me to be more independent, responsible, and adaptable. Living abroad improved my communication skills and helped me understand different cultures, which will be valuable in both my personal and professional life."
Define career goals
Au Pairs typically gain a clear view of their future career path during their time in the program. They are exposed to new cultures, education opportunities, different work environments, and more. This real world experience helps many participants better understand what they want for their future careers and the environments they will thrive in.
Au Pairs are introduced to possibilities they may not have previously thought of. Some find new passions while others gain clarity that their original goals are the right fit. The program helps build confidence and participants can make informed decisions for their future.
While many participants go in to careers in education and child development others choose careers like international business, healthcare, social work, psychology, entrepreneurship, and many more. The skills Au Pairs learn and strengthen during the program transfer to many career types.
Build leadership skills
Caring for children requires leadership, trust, and responsibility all qualities that are highly sought after in any job market. Au Pairs are responsible for children’s safety, well being, and daily routines. Participants balance multiple tasks at once from managing schedules and activities to adapting to changing needs. Meeting Host Family expectations requires strong organization skills, reliability, and being able to prioritize effectively.
Au Pairs must operate day to day tasks with minimal supervision and strong decision making skills. This gives Au Pairs an advantage at an early age that others won’t be able to gain in other work environments. The leadership and accountability developed during the program sets participants apart as capable and trusted candidates for most jobs.
"This experience has helped me grow in a big part of my personal confidence, independence, adaptability, and cultural awareness. Taking care of children and being part of a new family has taught me patience, responsibility, and leadership skills. I believe all these qualities will benefit me in both my career and personal life, and will allow me to approach new challenges with more confidence and resilience."
Broaden your world view
Being an Au Pair in the U.S. is a unique experience because of the melting pot of many cultures Au Pairs can experience. Each region of the U.S. has it’s own blend of cultures that Au Pairs immerse themselves in giving them the opportunity to experience different ideas, ways of living, and perspectives.
This experience helps build empathy and a deeper awareness of cultural and personal differences which allows Au Pairs to connect with others. Employers see these skills as a major strength in today’s diverse work environments.
Stand out in a competitive job market
Including your Au Pair experience on your resume helps you stand out. It shows your willingness to take on challenges, shows initiative, and responsibility that employers look for. Becoming an Au Pair gives an advantage that your peers in the job market typically won’t be able to compete with.
Au Pairs can highlight on their resumes:
- Cross cultural communication skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Time management
- Reliability
- Problem solving
- Leadership
- Self motivation and independence
- Organization and planning
- Conflict resolution
- Empathy and understanding
"My Au Pair experience will be very valuable for my future. Living in another country pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me improve my English, and taught me to adapt quickly to different lifestyles and ways of thinking. Working with children helped me develop patience, creativity, and organizational skills. Also, living with a new family and interacting with people from different cultures strengthened my communication and empathy. All of this will help me both in my personal life and in future academic or professional opportunities."
A lifetime of global career skills
Being an Au Pair is more than just cultural exchange and child care, it’s an investment in your future. The skills, confidence, and global perspective gained during the Au Pair program can shape your professional future for many years to come.
Whether your goal is to work internationally or stand out in your home country, the Au Pair experience helps you build a strong foundation for a successful global career.
Ready to become an Au Pair?
Being an Au Pair in the U.S. brings a new adventure every day and connections that shape your journey and your future. Now is the time to start your adventure and open your heart to new experiences. Discover how being an Au Pair can change your life forever.
