Hi there,
We're about to employ a nanny, who worked for over 3 years in her current job.
Initially when we interviewed her she told us that she was available part time (she apparently wanted to remain working with the other family also). We thought about this, and realised that we needed more than part-time help, so offered her a full time position with us. She accepted immediately - we had upped her pay a bit, so it was a good offer for her.
I know it might seem a bit crap to 'poach' a nanny in this way, but these things happen.
I hadn't yet checked her references before making the job offer (silly, I know). She is now saying that she is on 'very bad terms' with the family because they felt let down by her etc. She has basically said that I shouldn't contact them for a reference.
I picked up on negative vibes towards the family when she told me this, which was in contrast to the impression she gave at first interview, where she was telling me how 'flexible' the mum was when it came to hours and days. Obviously, they can't be crazy people, otherwise why stay 3 years in the same job?
Instead she's given me numbers of people she's babysat for a few times etc.
Would this ring alarm bells for you?