6 Great Steps To Hire A Nanny

Most parents today hire nannies if they do not have sufficient time for the children. Hiring a nanny is generally a very stressful procedure; however it can be simplified by following the 6 great steps that makes it a positive experience.

The 6 great steps to hire a nanny:

1) First decide the type of childcare you would need: You need to decide if you need a live-in nanny or a live-out nanny or an au pair or a mother’s help. In addition you need to decide the qualities the nanny should have – whether she must have a sense of fun, first-aid training, a perfect driving record, a nursing degree. Also make a list of the no’s; like your childcare should not have a speeding ticket, be unqualified or be a smoker.  Once you make a comprehensive list you would be able to create a job description that attracts nannies you are looking out for.

 

2) Next calculate the amount you have to pay your nanny to see if you can afford it: While calculating the total costs remember to take into consideration expenses for activities, annual raises and bonuses; do not forget to include taxes. Carry on a research in your area about the going rate of nannies and how much is to be set aside for taxes. 

3) The third step is to post the job: The job posting can be made on sites like Care.com and should consist of all the qualities you are looking out for; an attractive summary would promote the job highlights to your social network. Attract the right person with enough details; do not forget to mention upfront baby care experience, awkward shift patterns or help with homework if required.

4) The fourth great step is to interview the candidates to find the right match: Judge if they are professional, have the required qualifications and experience and then create a short list. Pick the best 5 to 10 candidates and conduct a phone or Skype interview, or meet at a coffee shop. Ask the right questions to see what kind of rapport you have with each candidate. Narrow down the candidates to 2 or 3 and invite them to your home for an in-person interview. Tell them how your household runs and ask them detailed questions about their childcare and background philosophies. Make sure you observe how she interacts with the children.

5) Fifthly get a DBS check and reference check done through Care.com: You could also double check references of what other families they worked with have to say; checking with friends and relatives of the candidate would give you a wrong impression. It is best to note that once you get along with a particular nanny after the checks you can generally trust your instinct; propose a trial period of a week or two. 

6) The last step is to take the responsibility of employer taxes: Ensure that it is done through a reputable payroll company such as Nanny Tax. 

Now you can rest assured that you have hired a nanny that is a perfect fit for your family.  

Image Courtesy: Google