"We used several agencies but yours was the only one who really screened the candidates. From other agencies we received hoards of applications, all unqualified!" -Shen Family |
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Philadelphia Nanny Network
What to look for when hiring a NANNY:
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Experience. Examine and explore work history (including child care) life experiences and education.
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Compatibility. Do you concur on child rearing and discipline philosophies and approaches. Are your habits similar? (i.e. neatness, organization, timeliness, flexibility vs. rigidity, food choices, priorities)
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Qualities. Does the applicant have a natural inclination to connect to and understand the needs of children at each stage of development?
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Common Sense and Patience. A nanny needs an extraordinary amount of both.
What to look for in an AGENCY:
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Screening and Background Checking Methods. Know specifically the depth of child care reference checks and applicant interviews.
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Availability of agency personnel. Do you get an answering machine when you call or is there someone in the office during business hours?
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Breadth of experience and reputation. If the agency has been in business a short time expect them to be short on experience in screening applicants and counseling on hiring a nanny. If the agency has been in business a long time expect more experience in the ability to detect the more subtle red flags that only experience can define. Word of mouth reputation is important. Agency fee should reflect agency's expertise.
If hiring a NANNY on your own:
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Ask DETAILS about background and work history since high school graduation.
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Check ALL child care jobs and verify ALL employment.
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Contract to do a state criminal check, DMV check and social security number verification.
- If using a virtual agency like enannysource.com or 4nannies.com exchange pictures and consider meeting for a trial weekend.
What to look when choosing a FAMILY:
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Ask DETAILS about the job expectations including duties and responsibilities, hours, children's habits, and family's habits.
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Discuss the child rearing philosophies. Get specific examples to better understand how the parents approach raising children.
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Find out about involvement of extended family.
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Discuss disciplining and limit setting philosophies and beliefs.
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Speak with previous nannies, if available.
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Secure the job description and job offer in writing.
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Philadelphia Nanny Network 610-645-6550 10 East Athens Avenue, Suite 214, Ardmore, PA 19003
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