It’s easier to find a trustworthy care provider if you know exactly what you’re looking for. Take the time to decide on remuneration, a schedule, and the nanny’s tasks. You can add certain personality traits to the list of requirements if you want. While it’s good to keep your mind open, there’s nothing like a comprehensive reference and background check to put it at ease. You can refer to UnMask for background check tips.
What to Ask
Experience with children and a valid driver’s license are two key considerations. You might also ask your candidates if they’re CPR certified. Think about when the nanny should be available and how often you’ll need her. Usually, nannies live with the family, but this doesn’t have to be the case in your situation.
Ask candidates if they can help watch your child when you’re at work or even if you work from home. Begin factoring her services into your budget as well.
Consider using authority sources and social media to help find reliable applicants. Sites like UrbanSitter and SitterCity also have a lot of nanny profiles. You can contact an agency unless you don’t want to pay their fees.
Stay Safe
Think about how you’ve been dealing with the Covid situation. It remains a concern nationwide. You might need the nanny to quarantine with you before she starts working for your family. At any rate, do ask your candidates about how their approach to childcare has changed during the outbreak.
Other basic things to ask about during the interview would be whether the person has taken childcare courses, how they would go about disciplining a child, whether they’re certified in first aid, and if they’re willing to undergo a background check. Ask how they would deal with a disobedient child, a baby that cries all the time, or another tough situation. Ask them what their biggest work-related challenge has been so far.
More About the Interview
The interview is an excellent opportunity to introduce your applicants to your family, your expectations, and your day-to-day life. A true professional will have an open schedule and be flexible with many kids. The interview should be more like a conversation than a formal affair. Ask your potential hire about how they cope under pressure, their background, and their hobbies or interests.
Share your expectations with them by all means. Provide a schedule and job description. Explain whether you’re looking for a part-time or full-time nanny. If your child or children are taking certain medication or have special needs, this has to be communicated in advance.
Your applicants will ask about hourly pay, so do share the pay range. This can help in lieu of giving a fixed amount. Clarify your standards and let them know what a qualified candidate means to you. Do they hold certificates or degrees in early childhood education? Will you need help with housework? Will you need them to help your children with their homework?
Do a Test
The interview should include a meeting with your child. Arrange a test period of up to a week to make sure she’s a good fit. Be there on the first day to observe their interaction and give the nanny more freedom over the rest of the test period if everything goes well. Check in with both your child and the nanny to see if things went smoothly at the end of the week.
Sign a Contract
Even if the nanny will be on call or part-time, make a contract. A contract keeps tasks, payment, vacation, and expectations clear for both parties.
If taken consecutively, these steps will make sure you ultimately find a nanny you can trust.