Hiring a nanny

[Lou573]

Hi, can anyone tell me the process they went through to hire their nanny please? We’re looking for a nanny, have been in touch with a few on childcare.com, I assume the next step would be to do some sort of interview? When would you suggest they meet the kids? Thanks!

I would start with an initial discussion with a nanny payroll provider, unless you do payroll as a job so know all about that, so that you can get some costings in your mind. At this stage have you decided on what gross salary you would be offering an applicant? Have you got the working days and hours fixed or are those going to be variable?

You have been in touch with some already which is good but are any fitting with your requirements well... and do you fit with theirs?
Consider commute distance if the job is live-out. Do they drive and will they provide a car or use yours. Can they do the things you want: cooking, languages for example.

When applicants contact you, or you message suitable looking candidates (the ChildcareCoUk system lets you look for nanny profiles and message those nannies plus for nannies to look for your profile and message you), you can then confirm in the message the salary on offer... or a salary range if you are keeping it a little negotiable. You do not want to interview a nanny who you cannot afford. You do not want nannies contacting you who are looking for more money than you are prepared to pay. So the more about salary you can put on your advert (profile) the better in my view.

Initially screen out unsuitable applicants via the messaging system on the website/app. Have a list of your criteria and determine if they meet your requirements. Then do a phone interview or video chat over Facetime, Skype, HouseParty, Zoom.. whatever video chat facility you both have. Then arrange to meet in person. I would avoid meeting too many people... focus on your top applicant, meet them and see if you all gel. If you gel, offer the job and if they turn it down then go to your next favourite applicant.

1. Sign up to nannytax
2. Review the huge amounts of interview tips they have
3. Draw up the contract they also provide.

I've had a lot of bad experiences on childcare.com though, you do have to do your homework and be crystal clear about what "gross pay" means. Ask enough questions about stuff that matters to you, be honest about what you need, and above all go with your instinct. I had a lucky escape once with a lovely lady I interviewed. Hired the other candidate and was chatting later that day with ex police officer neighbour who happened to see the CV. She told me that address was well known...