They Want Interview Even Tho I Don't Have Space?

[DBug]

A prospective DCP who is on my waiting list wants an interview even though I don't have space for her little one yet. Normally I notify my waiting list when I have a spot open up, and then I schedule an interview and tour to go over everything (policies,contract, payment, etc.). It takes about an hour for my interviews and I do them in the evening. I also schedule my husband to watch our kids so I can concentrate on the new family. I spend some time tidying up in advance, so all told, I end up committing an entire evening for my whole family for each interview.

Because of everything it entails, I'm inclined to tell the family no, not until a suitable spot opens up. But what do you guys think? Would it offend the family? Or do you think they're just looking to use my daycare as a comparison for other places?

[laundrymom]

I wouldnt, I'd just tell them you reserve the tours until you have an opening to avoid wasting everyones time.

[marniewon]

I agree, tell them you will schedule an interview when a spot opens.

[legomom922]

I wouldnt, I'd just tell them you reserve the tours until you have an opening to avoid wasting everyones time.

same here. Why take your night and waste it?

[SilverSabre25]

Yep, stick to your guns and don't do interviews unless you have space available.

In early December I had a parent trying to force me into an interview for November 2011 (this mom was *barely* pregnant). I kept telling her, "Ma'am, I don't know what's going to be happening a year from now, I have NO IDEA if I'll have space, call me back in the summer and we'll talk." and she kept trying to pin me down to do an interview...

[Live and Learn]

No openings, no interview.

[laundrymom]

you could do what the fast food places tell kids looking for jobs,...
you can put in an application,. ( name on waiting list) but we arent doing interviews at this time, we will call you if we have an opening come up.....

[DBug]

Thanks for the confirmation ladies! It's good to know I'm not being unrealistic or unreasonable or anything like that !

[kendallina]

I agree with everyone else...no need to waste your time or theirs.

[SunflowerMama]

I wouldnt, I'd just tell them you reserve the tours until you have an opening to avoid wasting everyones time.

I totally agree.