How to hire a nanny in Chicago
If you've never hired a nanny before, it can be hard to figure out where to start. Follow our step-by-step guide to discover how to hire a nanny in Chicago.
1) Figure out your nanny requirements
The process of finding a nanny starts just like any kind of job recruitment - first of all, you need to write a detailed job description. This should include key details such as the anticipated hours of employment and the tasks you would expect your nanny to carry out.
For example, will the nanny need to do school runs and help with preparing meals? Will the position be live-in and, if so, what amenities will the nanny be provided with? Ironing out these key details right from the start is essential to attract the ideal candidates for your nannying position.
2) Find suitable nanny candidates
Now for the hard part - searching for a nanny. In some areas, the demand for top-class nannies is high, and you may find it hard to recruit high-caliber candidates for your position.
There are three ways to search for potential nanny candidates - word of mouth, online, or via a nanny agency. Word of mouth is a good way to find out about nannies who are soon to become available, and the best nannies often get snapped up in this way.
Online searches can also yield good results, but it can take a huge amount of time to sift through potential candidates. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the idea of shortlisting potential nannies, a reputable nanny agency can help solve this problem.
3) Interview shortlisted candidates
Once you've got a shortlist of candidates, the time comes to interview them. If you've never been in this situation before, it can be difficult to know what to ask. It can be a good idea to pose certain scenarios, such as 'how would you handle …. if it occurred?'. The interview is also the ideal time to check your candidate's credentials and validate their childcare experiences.
Be prepared to interview candidates more than once if necessary. You may start with an online interview via video call, followed by face-to-face interviews with promising candidates. Finally, once you think you've found the perfect nanny, introduce them to your children and observe how well they interact together.
4) Background checks, references, and contracts
Hiring a nanny should never be a casual agreement - background checks and references are essential to safeguard your child's health and welfare. In addition, you will need a watertight contract that details not only the nanny's role but also your responsibilities as an employer. This may include important details such as healthcare and other benefits.
If you're worried about the complexities of hiring a nanny, working with a reputable nanny agency can help to ease the burden. A nanny agency will not only help to shortlist and interview potential candidates, but also assist you with background checks and drawing up a suitable employment contract.
Welcome to Sommet Nannies, a nanny agency with presence in Boston, Chicago, Washington DC, New York and nationwide. We help busy families find dedicated and caring college-educated nannies.
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