All About Being Successful As A New Nanny

The work environment of a nanny is different from all other types of caregivers as they work in private homes and provide individualized, customized and highly personalized childcare. Working in an intimate work environment their relationship with parents is quite complex. It would be right to say that even the most qualified nanny would not be the best nanny for a family.

Here are a few tips that would make the transition to this new role successful.

 
a) Do not be tempted to jump at the first job thinking that nannies in some families earn higher salary; wait for the right job with the right family. All that glitters is not gold; it is better to accept a position that is a right fit and pays less than get into a higher paying job that makes you miserable.

b) Ensure that you have a written work agreement in place; such an agreement outlines the employment agreement between a nanny and her employers and details the specific duties, expectations and responsibilities of each party. It helps to prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications down the road.

c) It is best to know that nannies are not casual workers, but non-exempt employees of the families and are protected under the Fair Labor Standards Act. They are entitled to a minimum wage for every hour worked and are also entitled to overtime wages if they work more than 40 hours in a week. In addition they are also covered by employment tax laws.

d) Nannies should learn how to say, “No”; this is very necessary for their sanity and to avoid a burnout.  Though you may want to be flexible and accommodating, it is best to avoid what was not a part of the original commitment or plan.

e) It is best to establish boundaries with your employer; it is not necessary to tell her all the details of what you did in the weekend. After all you have your personal life.

f) It is very necessary for a nanny to take care of her physical, emotional and social needs, as only then she can take care of her charges effectively. Nannies need to eat healthy, get exercise and enough sleep and carve out time for friends, family and personal interests. This is imperative for their long-term career.

g) A nanny needs to be a good open and honest communicator, with communication based on mutual respect that ensures longevity of the relationship. It would help to keep a journal, checking it once a day, and having weekly meetings. Even if confrontations are uncomfortable, addressing issues and concerns as they arise will prevent resentment and hurt feelings from settling in.

h) Act like a professional to be treated as one; this includes having a work agreement, being paid legally, showing up on time, dressing appropriately, limiting cell phone and electronics usage, and being completely present when on duty.

i) Nannies must have a good attitude; though they may have bad attitude moments, they cannot afford to have bad attitude days. Both their bosses and kids in their care will pick on them.

j) Nannies should love the children in her care, advocate for their best interests, and gives them enough snuggles to last a lifetime, but she should also respect, honor and support the parent/child relationship, heeds the direction of her employers, and know when to step back and allow the family time together without being offended.

Lastly being a nanny is a truly rewarding experience on so many levels once you set yourself up for success.

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