Whether you are a single parent who has a full-time job or are one of two stay-at-home parents who run your own business, a nanny can greatly assist you with meeting your obligations. Hiring a nanny, however, can be an intimidating and complex process. Knowing the basics when hiring a nanny can prevent stress and worry before and after the process is complete.
Step 1
Brainstorm a list of the expectations you have for a nanny. Decide what her pay will be, how many hours per week she will work, whether she will only be in charge of the children or will be responsible for other household chores as well and other guidelines that you have for her. Include personality traits, characteristics or strengths that would be useful for the tasks at hand.
Step 2
Talk to a financial adviser to assess any legal responsibilities placed upon you in hiring a nanny. You may be required to file documentation with the IRS for tax purposes or to pay your nanny as an employer. Paying a nanny "under the table" has legal ramifications, so take precautions to avoid this situation. Once you hire a nanny, keep track of all financial records and payments to her for at least four years for tax purposes.
Step 3
Place an advertisement in a local newspaper or an online classifieds directory, or look for a nanny through a professional nanny service, such as Nannies4Hire.com.
Step 4
Schedule a time for an initial interview for any interested parties who respond to your request. Do not include the children at the first meeting; schedule a follow-up interview that includes the children if the initial interview goes well. Be cautious and selective when choosing someone who will spend significant amounts of time with your children.
Step 5
Investigate the nanny's background. Contact references that she may have provided to ask about her reliability in previous jobs, strengths, weaknesses and any hesitations they may have about recommending her. Consider running a background security screening through a professional agency as well.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't be afraid to be picky about who will be influencing and teaching your children. They are your children, and you should be comfortable with the person you've hired to be responsible for their day-to-day care.
