Au pair hiring process

[nikosmum2010]

Hi NM

I have found an au pair that I like using au pair world and she has accepted our offer. Just wondering what the next steps are i.e do I need to draft a contract, at which point should it be signed, and for those with experience what happens for example if things don't work out say after a week? What notice period do you put in the contract if any? What happens when you go on holiday assuming you will not be taking au pair with you? I would appreciate as much information as possible. Thanks

Contract - yes you need one. Best to send it by email for them to read first and get an electronic signature if possible. It can be signed properly once they arrive. Giving it to them in advance allows them to ask questions and if necessary find someone who can explain it to them in their own language if necessary.

In this contract you can put a probation period with, for example, 1 week notice, which usually lasts a month. After that 4 weeks notice is usual but it only has to be a week. The problem is that notice works both ways so you could find yourself au pairless.

Au pairs have the right to 5.6 weeks paid holiday per 12 month period. If you go away then you just pay them as usual and leave them behind/set the holiday dates in advance so they can go home or on their own holiday.