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How to Hire a Nanny

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How to Hire a Nanny | Practical Advice for Parents

Trying to figure out how to hire a nanny can be a mind boggling experience for parents. There are so many factors to take into consideration, and you certainly do not want to leave the care of your child in the hands of just anyone.

So, just how do you go about hiring a nanny?

There are many important steps to take in the process of hiring someone, from background checks, to live interviews, and experience. My goal is to arm you with the right information, resources, and skills so that you are at complete comfort when hiring your nanny for your children.


There are more resources available on how to find an ideal nanny, including some detailed information on available nanny services in your area, over at one of my favorite websites: IdealNannyConnect.com.

How to Hire a Nanny - Before You Find Candidates

How to Hire a NannyBefore you start searching for a nanny for your kids, make sure you have taken the time to map out exactly what you are looking for in a nanny. This will be a major time saver for both you and the candidate nanny's, as well as helping ensure you get what you really want for your children.

The very first thing you want to do is create your list of "Needs, Wants, & Can'ts " for your nanny.

> What do you NEED the nanny to do? Perhaps the answer to this question is you need the nanny to be well educated, have experience with references, and you NEED the nanny to be available during specific hours. You will be surprised how many parents and families end up separating from a new nanny after just a few weeks because schedules just are not working out.

> What do you WANT the nanny to do? Many moms and dads want the nanny to also pitch in around the house. Maybe some laundry or cook a meal or two. Make sure this is clear and that you have thought about making household chores a part of the job description. Some nanny's are not comfortable, or will want to charge extra for this kind of service, so be prepared to discuss it.

> What CAN'T the nanny do? Finally, make sure you have a clear list of items that you will strictly not allow the nanny to do. Items such as driving with your children in the car unless absolutely necessary. Or making sure the nanny knows exactly what the kids proper area to play in is. There are many ideas here, but just make sure you know what the key things are that would make you upset if you knew they happened, and include this in the job description and interview session.

There are many more ideas here for your preparation in hiring a nanny over at Ideal Nanny Connect.
Important!

Learning the Right Way to Hire a Nanny

Learning How to Hire a Nanny Takes a Little Time & Preparation on Your Part. Start Preparing Now for Hiring A Nanny for Your Most Valuable Possession: Your Kids!



Get More Details and Information on Nanny Services, Tips for Finding Great Nanny's, and More Here: How to Find an Ideal Nanny.

How to Hire a Nanny Interview Tips

Now that you are ready to start interviewing a nanny, here are some key tips to keep in mind to make sure you get the right information and answers from the candidate.
  • Background Checks - Always do a background check on your candidate nanny. However, make sure you reveal to the candidate that you are going to be doing so. This gives them a chance to be honest and open with you. Ask them if there is anything that you should expect to see on the background check. This will be a supreme test of the honesty and integrity of the individual.

    If there is something that might show up, and they informed you of it openly and honestly, then you can make an informed decision if it is something that is a deal breaker for you. In some cases, it might be something like a past traffic accident or some other activity that is not as serious.
  • Interview Location - Always interview in the location the nanny will be watching your kids. In most cases, this is your home. You will want to see the candidate and how comfortable they feel inside your home and with your children around.
    Be sure to take notes on comfort level, interaction with any pets you have also have at the home, and a general feeling of ease or not with the candidate.
    You should always offer them a glass of water to drink during the interview, as this helps them calm any nerves they may have.
  • Take Notes During Nanny Hiring - Do not be afraid to take detail notes on each candidate as you interview them. Do not rely solely on your memory or any other method. If you want to video tape the interview so you can review it in more detail, then you MUST get the candidates consent to do so first. Taping without consent is not a good idea.
  • Use a Nanny Service - Finally,do not be afraid to enlist a nanny service in your search. They are very affordable to use and have great reputations. You can get items like referrals and background checks done for you, and get a qualified pool of candidates right at the start.

    Get more information on some great Nanny Services by visiting IdealNannyConnect.com.

More Tips on How to Hire a Nanny

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  • harrysheldons Feb 8, 2011 @ 11:50 am | delete
    Great article on how to look for a Nanny Jobs ...it is very important I had to call home every now and then, even though I know everything about the nanny ie companies reputation etc..still you cant help it..thanks for the lens
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