Choosing a nanny is serious business. After all, a nanny is responsible for the physical and emotional well-being of your loved ones. Depending on your children’s ages, she might also help shape their intellectual development and emerging personalities. The right nanny could be akin to an angel who helps your household run smoothly. The wrong nanny could be something else entirely.
Give yourself peace of mind by preparing well for your interviews and conducting background checks. Here are some tips.
- Meet your favorite candidate twice. A top firm doesn’t hire after just one interview, and you shouldn’t either. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to first screen potential nannies in a public place such as a coffee shop. This has safety advantages for both parties; most nannies will appreciate not having to visit a stranger’s home. The second interview should be held at your home and with your children present. It can be much more informal.
- Ask the candidate, “Why are you a nanny?” This will help you to understand her values. It also gives her a chance to present her background.
- Ask the candidate to describe her ideal employer. This question, too, will help you ascertain her values. Be honest with yourself when listening to her needs; don’t make promises you can’t keep.
- Have the nanny describe her experience with children in the relevant age group. If you are hiring a nanny for an infant, then it’s essential that she have infant experience. Also ask how she would spend a typical day with the children in her care. Ensure that she will stimulate your children’s minds and keep them active.
- Ask your nanny to describe her methods of discipline. It’s important that discipline be consistent among caretakers.
- Your nanny will need to know or learn CPR. Many candidates do not have CPR certificates. It’s customary for employers to pay a small fee for nannies to take a lesson at a medical center, the fire department, or another convenient location.
Once you’ve become excited about a potential match, put on your imaginary detective cap and check her references. Be sure to speak with childcare references and personal references. You might want to ask previous employers why she is no longer working with them.
Finally, extend a job offer to the appropriate candidate. Have her consent to a formal background check as a condition of employment. MyBackgroundCheck.com offers a free trial membership to help screen potential employees and keep your loved ones in safe hands.
