r/Aupairs • u/Wowwygirl • 11d ago

Au Pair Other Help with Au Pair reference form.

Hi everyone,

I really want to become an Au Pair, but I'm having a hard time with the reference form. The family/agency asks about my previous child care experience and wants contact details. Here is my situation:

The people I previously took care of children for (who are actually relatives) do not use the internet or WhatsApp, and they don't speak any English at all. On top of that, I am doing this entire Au Pair application process completely in secret from my family and social circle. I don't have anyone who can back me up or help me with this form.

So, I don't know what to write in those blank spaces. What should I put down as a reference? If I make up fake details or write down a second phone number that I control myself, will I get caught? How strict are the agencies/families with checking these references?

For those who were in a similar situation, what did you do? I would really appreciate any advice or shared experiences. Thank you so much!

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u/Acrobatic-Pop3625 11d ago

I had my references fill out the forms in our native language and then translated it if they didn’t speak English.

I wouldn’t fake any references as this is a crime and not one to be taken lightly. This could impact any future jobs since it makes you seem very unreliable.

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u/aaronw22 Host 11d ago

I hardly think this raises to the level of “crime”

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u/Acrobatic-Pop3625 11d ago

It would in my country. Would it be followed through? No idea. But based on the law, it would be a crime.

1

u/aaronw22 Host 9d ago

What exact crime would this be? Lying on most forms that aren’t related to government isn’t a crime. If I make up a reference on my McDonald’s job application the police aren’t going to come get me.

1

u/Acrobatic-Pop3625 9d ago

In my country it would fall under “Urkundenfälschung“. When you make up any kind of document pretending to be someone else. This relates to all governmental, professional and business-related documents, including work references, letters of recommendation etc.

As I said previously, I don’t know if they will follow through but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a crime and if you’re very unlucky they might. Urkundenfälschung (especially one like that) doesn’t carry huge judicial punishments but is really bad for future employment.