What would you (parents) look for in a babysitter?

As long as you don't cross that very fine line of 'loving' the children i think you'll do fine. You aren't applying for a company, and those who hire you aren't exactly going to write up a contract. Advertising? try kidnapping a few kids at the kiddy room at mcdonalds, when the police & reporters show up, make sure to hug the children and smile.