How to Hire a Nanny: 3 Steps to Take Before You Begin the Nanny Interview Process

One of the biggest mistakes that I see parents make when searching for a nanny is that they jump directly into their nanny search by asking other moms for “good nanny” recommendations and start interviewing candidates without first taking the time to communicate the basics of the job, family preferences and budget. While I empathize with a parent’s anxiety to find a “good nanny” quickly, the interviewing process will be a whole lot less stressful and time consuming if you slow down and follow these simple steps before you begin the nanny interview process.
 
Step 1:  Create a Nanny Wish List and Job Description
Before you start your search, you need to first identify and clearly communicate what type of nanny you are looking for. Of course, you need a nanny who is safe, reliable, loving and attentive to your child but let’s think beyond those important characteristics (as they should be a prerequisite for any caregiver) into the basics of the actual employment. Take the time to write out:
 
“The Non-Negotiables”: Requirements that a nanny candidate must be able to fulfill to apply for the position

• What is the location of the job, schedule and level of flexibility needed?  E.g. UES (86th street N,Q train); M-F; 8-6pm with flexibility to stay later 1x a week
• When is the start date for job? E.g. Start date 2/15/17 with 2-5 days of training before official start
• What is the desired experience and/or educational level that you prefer? E.g. 5+ years working as nanny in NYC; recent experience with twins and/or young babies
• Do you need someone with the ability to be paid according to the legal standard? E.g. Must be eligible to work in the US and be paid “on the books”
• What household responsibilities are needed beyond the basics of childcare? E.g. Child-related and light housekeeping
• What skills are necessary: E.g. driver’s license and clean record; CPR certified; ability to swim, speak “X” language, provide homework help?
• What provisions are required for the job? E.g. A car to use on the job; able to work with a dog or cat in the home; willing to abide by special dietary rules of your family (Kosher home, allergies, healthy/organic food

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“The Wants”: Things that would be preferred but the inability to provide these things will not immediately disqualify an otherwise qualified nanny E.g. Can babysit one Saturday night per month for a date night; ability and willingness to prep or cook simple meals for your family; physically fit or athletic to play sports with kids; willing to do family laundry

“The Extras”: These are non-essentials but they make a strong nanny candidate look amazing! E.g. Willing to travel with your family on occasion; able to teach your child piano; able to develop a curriculum plan for your child’s education; ability to work as a weekday live-in nanny during the summer in the Hamptons

Step 2: Research the Nanny Market

• What outlets do parents use to find nannies in your area? E.g. Care.com; Facebook parenting groups; nanny agencies; local job websites; communication boards, etc.
• What is the local average hourly rate for a nanny with a similar number of hours weekly, same number of children, household needs, special skill requirements, experience/ educational background; payment situation (on or off books)?
• Educate yourself on your legal obligations and the costs for employing a nanny: taxes; insurances; hourly minimums and overtime guidelines; payment frequency and record keeping. (I highly recommend contacting www.homeworksolutions.com, when you mention “Choice Parenting” they offer a free nanny tax consultation plus $100 off your payroll costs. During the consultation, Homework Solutions will talk you through the cost of paying on the book, the deductions available, flex spending accounts, your responsibilities for record keeping, checking immigration status, and insurances; plus the overall benefits for paying legally and the risks if you do not)
• What benefits are typically offered to nannies in your area? E.g. vacation, holidays paid; guaranteed hours; paid public transportation; sick and personal days; meals; annual bonus; etc.

 
Step 3: Write a detailed “Help Wanted Ad” with an overview of your position’s needs

• Build your job post so that it includes the non-negotiable requirements of the position and any strong “wants”.
• Post a compensation range that includes both the hourly and weekly “take-home” (net) pay. Why? Don’t waste your time with candidates that are out of your budget!
• If you are planning to pay on the books, include this in your ad
• Post your ad on care.com, Facebook groups, mommy boards, craigslist or any other outlet you chose to use for advertising.
• Create an ad that you can send via text message to nannies that were recommended to you and did not directly apply for the position or see your advertisement

 
By clearly identifying and communicating the basic needs for your job, you will not only weed out individuals who will not be a good fit but also create an interview environment that is focused on getting to know the nanny’s experience level, child-rearing style, personality and discuss the most important part of the job… your child!
 
To learn about Choice Parenting childcare coaching sessions and receive guidance as you begin the nanny interview process to hire a quality nanny for your family contact Holly Flanders for a free phone consultation.