How to Recruit a Nanny

The Options
Using the Nanny Agency
Using the Web-Based Service
On Your Own

You have decided that you need a nanny. Now you have to find one. The following are time tested techniques you may use to help you recruit the perfect candidate.


The Options
The first bridge you have to cross is determining the level of assistance you wish and your family budget for recruitment.

Many first time nanny employers feel a bit adrift in the process. They want or need assistance in the recruitment process. The levels of available assistance vary, and so does the price of the help. Typical choices include retaining a nanny agency and/or using internet-based recruiting resources.

The experienced nanny employer has less emotional or practical need for assistance with the candidate selection, but time (or the lack thereof) may drive them to retain help anyway.

Families who choose to recruit without assistance have a variety of recruiting avenues they can explore. These are discussed below in more detail.

When you want help...
Nanny referral agencies exist in all areas of the country. Your first stop in locating a nanny agency is this site - the database of agencies on NannyNetwork.com is the most comprehensive available anywhere. Also available to help you here is advice on Interviewing the Nanny Agency.

Typically, a nanny agency will:

  • Collect a retainer from the family before beginning to recruit. Retainer may vary from $50-$250 dollars and is generally non-refundable and not contingent in a successful placement.


  • Interview the family, in person if geographically feasible, to determine the family needs.


  • Begin the advertisement and recruitment activities to find appropriate candidates.


  • Pre-screen select candidates, verifying employment history and checking personal references.


  • Refer finalists to the family for an interview. Generally the agency will provide the family with interview guidance, as well as the results from their reference checking. NannyNetwork.com has a number of helpful articles in interviewing the nanny in the NannyNetwork.com Parent's Library.


  • Collect feedback from the family after interviewing, refer more candidates if necessary, or help the family make a job offer to the candidate. The agency should be able to assist the family with salary and tax issues, or refer to specialists in that area. Home/Work Solutions, Inc. is a nationally recognized leader in nanny payroll and tax services. The agency should also help the family write up a formal work agreement between the family and the nanny.


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