What type of nanny do I need and how do I interview them? A little helpful advice from our Director Vanessa Cook, mother to a 3 year old, former nanny, recruiter and employer of nannies.
If it’s your first time, we know it’s scary. Remember, we are here to help.
If this is your first time hiring a nanny or nanny-housekeeper I imagine you are terrified by the prospect. Maybe you have a 6 month old baby who you could not bear to pass on to your mother let alone a stranger!
Well, relax a little. When you do find your perfect candidate you will wonder what all the fuss was about. In home childcare is a truly a wonderful thing.
As you watch your child learn in the safety of your home, with an intelligent, educated and engaging nanny, you will feel secure as you walk out the door for work or play.
Decisions, decisions… What type of child carer is right for you?
Before beginning your search you need to have in mind a job description. Your Little Ones consultant will gladly help you with this. Ask yourself a few questions:
Do I want someone to live with my family or return home each day?
There are pros and cons to live in assistance. Cost is a major draw card but should not be your only reason. First you need to ask yourself “am I really prepared to share my living room, kitchen, home, 7 days per week? Or do I love my privacy too much!” A live in nanny will provide longer hours and flexibility of babysitting without the guilt of returning home from a night out early. A live in is also wonderful if you or your partner travels frequently.
Do I need help full time, a few days or just afternoons?
Maybe two days a week works. Be realistic. If you want a qualified nanny with 10 years’ experience, you can’t expect her to work the odd afternoon and occasionally full time. A nanny like this will seek the top salary with the best conditions. If you are looking for casual childcare this profile is very different.
Do I want to raise my child bilingual?
A bilingual nanny will cost you no more and will give your children an extra advantage in life by teaching a second language. Learning two languages at a young age is natural. Studies have shown bilingual children outperform monolingual children in reading, writing and cognitive skills.
What do I want my child carer to do?
Maybe you want someone to focus’ their day just on educating and playing with your child. Maybe you would like a nanny/housekeeper who cleans, cooks, irons, dusts and has time left over for your baby. Each candidate type is very different, and you need to consider what is right for your family.
Pre-interview
With your Little Ones consultant arrange a time to meet the candidates when you will be able to concentrate fully. It is important for the candidates to meet your children, but having them present for the entire interview may be distracting.
Go through the candidates CV carefully. Look for areas you wish to question them on:
The interview
Take your time when meeting a prospective candidate this will help you both to feel at ease. Begin by talking about your children and the position:
Now proceed with your prepared questions. A good candidate will be proud of their vocation - look for passion in their answers, but remember they may be nervous!
Post interview
If you loved the candidate that you just met be sure to let your Little Ones consultant know! Little Ones will arrange a trial for you with the candidate so you do not need to feel committed before you have seen how they perform with your children.
Remember, throughout the process, Little Ones are always here to help.
Take care and I hope you find someone perfect for your little ones.
Vanessa
