Second to making the decision to hire a nanny for your family, choosing the right candidate is extremely important and requires a great amount of thought and consideration. The relationship between a nanny and his/her employer is personal, unique and an extension of each other's close family. Finding the perfect match for your family is the first step in forming a lasting and growing relationship between everyone involved, especially the children. Regardless of whether you're hiring a nanny or a babysitter, it is important to meet with every candidate for an in-depth interview and a chance to see how they interact with your family. This process is a delicate balance of knowing what questions to ask and how to communicate the responsibilities required for your family. Communicating the position's requirements at the initial meeting begins the relationship on a positive note. Never assume that an interviewee knows, or is comfortable with, the job requirements of your position. For example, a nanny's primary responsibility is to take care of your children, not to perform household chores such as cooking or cleaning. Anything beyond such tasks as picking up toys or making your children's lunch should be discussed at the beginning, and proper compensation might be required. It's more than appropriate to ask a nanny to make family meals, do your child's laundry, or other duties; however, communicating and discussing these needs from the beginning allows everyone to start off on the right foot.
- Don't be afraid to let your candidate know that you are looking for a commitment. Ideally the relationship will flourish into one that lasts for more than a year, but starting with this milestone is less intimidating and allows you to sit down together as the year is coming to an end and evaluate the situation.
- Feel free to be specific, especially if it's a subject that pertains to your family such as inconsolable crying, biting, temper tantrums, etc.
I'd never been asked anything like that before - the assumption tends to be that I love every little thing about children or I wouldn't be in the business! I answered honestly: whining. I really loathe whining, and work diligently to eliminate it from a child's behavioural repertoire. The parent was very pleased with my answer. "If you'd said there was nothing you disliked, I wouldn't have believed you. I'm his mother, and I don't love everythig about that job, either!" she said.
Turns out that mom, before retooling as a lawyer, had worked for several years in a daycare centre! So, please be aware - just because there's some aspect of the job a caregiver doesn't like, doesn't necessarily make it a *weakness*.