Entrusting your child's care to someone outside of your household can be a difficult step to take. Many parents imagine all of the things that could go wrong. Hiring a nanny is an option for parents who want to establish familiarity and trust with one caregiver. A nanny typically spends a considerable amount of time with your child and may wield a great deal of influence, so it's important to choose someone who respects your lifestyle and parenting approach.
Step 1
Identify the type of responsibilities the job entails and your priorities as an employer. Decide whether your family needs a full-time or part-time nanny, as well as the flexibility of the work schedule. Be clear about the level of professional experience required and the specific tasks the nanny is expected to perform, such as preparing meals. Generate a firm list of criteria to help you eliminate individuals who aren't a good fit for your family.
Step 2
Ask family, colleagues and friends to recommend qualified nannies or placement agencies.
Step 3
Contact a nanny agency to discuss the qualifications you're seeking. An agency generally charges $1500 to $5000 for placement, according to NannyNetwork.com, but these services offer convenience and a broader applicant pool.
Step 4
Contact the applicants who meet your minimum requirements for a phone interview. Ask questions about the applicant's work history, including the ages of other children she has cared for and any formal training she has received. Explain the responsibilities of the job in detail, along with any factors that might discourage the applicant from the accepting the position, such as a child's medical condition or a family pet.
Step 5
Set up face-to-face interviews with the top candidates and invite your children to participate. Use this opportunity to observe how the prospective nannies interact with your children, BabyCenter.com suggests. Be on the lookout for signs that the person lacks patience or is dismissive of your child. During the interview, raise questions that will allow you to get a sense of each candidate's personality and professional strengths, such as creativity and CPR training. You should also discuss your family's approach to parenting and make sure the nanny is comfortable with your family's lifestyle.
Step 6
Perform a background check on any nanny you're considering hiring. Contact the candidate's references. Legitimate agencies include background checks as part of the screening process.
Step 7
Hire your first choice for a predetermined trial period. This will give you a chance to become familiar with one another. If you are satisfied with your choice, make the arrangement permanent by drafting a work agreement, detailing the terms of employment.
Tips and Warnings
- You can conduct your own nanny search by posting an advertisement in your local newspaper or on an online nanny-finder site. Include a clear description of the position, qualification requirements, payment details and a contact number.
