Finding the best nanny for your family
The process of finding a nanny can be either stressful or exciting, but there are a few steps you can take to make it as easy as possible. Before you begin your search, determine the details of your position (responsibilities, compensation, schedule, travel, long-term plans, etc.) to eliminate unqualified candidates. Due to the pandemic, working from home has become more common, which increases the importance of finding an adaptable candidate. Someone who can keep the children engaged and active during your working hours. But where do you start?
There is a lot of pressure to find the right person to care for your child in your absence, we understand that and are here to help you create the ideal scenario you’re looking for.
It takes a lot of research to figure out what works for your budget and is also available for your needs, which may be time-consuming especially if you are busy with work. Start by setting out key expectations that you have for your new nanny and outline the role of the position you are seeking.
What should you be looking for when you start searching?
We understand the importance of flexibility as busy parents. Having full transparency from the start allows you to eliminate candidates not suitable for the position. Need help with more than just childcare, possibly errand running? Consider hiring a family assistant! Someone who not only assists with childcare but can help with everyday responsibilities. Being upfront about your family's needs is very important for a long-lasting position. I’ve seen so many families run through many nannies because they weren't transparent about their needs and the nanny wasn't the right fit. Using an agency makes it easier as they handle all of the work and provide you with candidates that meet your exact needs.
Top tip from us: Join a parenting community for suggestions on caregivers that are well-known or highly liked in your area. Keep in mind a nanny that was perfect for another family doesn’t mean they are perfect for yours.
Parenting communities are great for advice and referrals but you must do your due diligence, and make sure the references are actually references and not a third cousin from out of state.
How to interview a nanny?
Before spending the time to meet a candidate we recommend an initial phone interview ( can be a video call if you’d prefer), that way you can get a feel for the candidate and see if they fit in with your family and meet your needs. The in-person interview should come after you contact their references. At this point you should have a good idea if they are a good prospect. Ask questions that are tailored to you and your child’s needs. Also check for qualifications to make sure that the potential person you hire is qualified to a degree level with wider experience.
If they pass these checks then it’s a personal question of whether you think they fit in with your personality. Trust your instinct, and if your gut tells you to keep looking, then do just that.
MAKE SURE A BACKGROUND CHECK IS CONDUCTED
Pro Tip: Remember to introduce the nanny to your children before you hire them and during the meeting take note of how they interact and whether your children are also fully comfortable. As an extra precaution ahead of offering a permanent position, plan a trial that will put your mind at ease.
If it gets overwhelming leave it to us and we’ll take care of it.
We build long lasting relationships between families and nannies by providing necessary support and encouragement. We have years of experience in pairing the perfect Nanny or baby nurse with families that have found the match perfectly respected their values, parenting approach as well as lifestyle choices. We are here to make your life easier in every sense and take pride in the high quality of services we provide. Our fully vetted baby nurses & nannies are highly qualified individuals who are not only experts in their field but are passionate about child development. Cherishing every milestone your child takes.
We are here to provide support, always. Contact us today to learn more about our staffing services