Finding the Right Nanny for Your Family

Choosing the right caregiver for your family is not only a very emotional decision — it can be very time consuming and perhaps even a bit overwhelming.

But there are ways to not only ease your stress, but also to increase your chances of finding the perfect nanny. The key is to carry out your nanny search in an organized way, with the appropriate considerations in mind.

What to Look for in a Nanny When looking for a nanny for your family, you’re not just hiring an employee — you’re selecting a role model and caregiver who will become a real part of your child or children’s life. For that reason, prepare for a careful nanny-selection process, and expect to spend some time going through that process. By putting in the appropriate level of research up front, it will ensure a happy experience for you, your child, and your nanny.

Before you even begin to review nanny resumes, decide what you’re looking for. Will your nanny be with you every day? (Allowing for days off, of course.) Will she be there nights and weekends? Are you looking for help with household duties as well?

To ensure a positive experience with your nanny, you must be 100% honest about your needs and requirements on the front end. Otherwise, you’ll end up frustrated, or your nanny will become overwhelmed. Needless to say, neither scenario makes for a positive long-term experience for you or your kids.

Here are some additional things to think about:

• Will your nanny live with your family?
• Should your nanny have his or her own transportation?
• How much are you willing to spend?
• How much education do you prefer your nanny have?
• What level of experience do you expect?
• Should your nanny have any specific first-aid experience or medical knowledge?

In a sense, these may seem like simple questions. But by having well-defined answers in mind before you start your search, you’ll be in a much better position to find a nanny who fits your requirements.

Take the Time

The very best advice we can offer to any family seeking out a nanny — whether it’s for the first time or not — is to take the time necessary to do it right. A successful nanny search requires research, patience, and diligence. If your gut tells you something is not right, keep looking. Don’t settle because you’re running short on time.

Where to Find Your Nanny

There are numerous ways to seek out a nanny for your family, from classified ads to tailored online searches. The benefit of an online search is that it often affords your family both a wider range of options and a greater level of specificity in defining your nanny search criteria. Curious how an online search works? Nanny Classifieds is designed to connect the right nannies with the right families. Click Here and see how it works

Regardless of the recruitment method you choose, once you’ve identified some qualified nanny candidates, it’s time to begin interviews. Whenever possible, conduct nanny interviews in person, though an initial phone interview can help to screen candidates.

Nervous about your nanny interviews? That’s totally normal! Simply be thorough and thoughtful as you ask questions. It’s better for you, and it’s better for your nanny.

Legalities, Taxes, and More

What are appropriate wages for a nanny in your area? How do you handle taxes? Do you offer benefits? If you’re like most people, you’re not an expert in the legal and tax-related requirements that come along with hiring a household employee. Luckily, you can glean important lessons from others, including experts who specialize in the field. Link up with other families with nannies in your area. Contact an expert. It may be a little work on the front end, but it will be more than worth it in the long run. Have a specific question? Ask the Experts at 4EverythingNanny.com

One More Time—Take Your Time

We can’t say it enough. Give yourself a solid month or two, and you should have the time you need to find the right match. Keep in mind that this is far different than hiring a new office worker. Turnover at an office is understandable and adults are accustomed to handling new faces. But, your little ones may become quickly attached to a nanny and won’t understand the other issues involved.

Need help? Search our Nanny Database for available candidates in your area and place a Free Help Wanted Ad. Start Here.

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