Choosing a nanny position

You are about to start a new position as a nanny. How do you determine it is the right position for you?

Giving a definitive answer on the right nanny position is almost impossible.

Finding the right family not only depends on you, the individual candidate, but it also depends on your situation and the individual family circumstances and the job description.

Each family will have their own expectation of what they are looking for in a nanny, such as age, qualifications or being able to drive, previous experience, etc. Just as you will have your own set of knowledge, experiences and skills based on your past positions and/or qualifications as well as your expectations of what you want in a position.

Only you can determine if you are the right fit for the family.

The type of family you choose can really make a difference between a job from hell and a huge amount of fun. What works for one and is the perfect position for one may not be for another.

• Qualifications. What you have and what they are asking for. Do they marry up?
• Experience. How much experience do you have not only on a general basis but with the particular age group/s for that position?
• Location including city, regional or rural locations. Where are you willing to take a position?
• Number of children. What is your preferred number of children to care for and ar you willing to increase/decrease this for a position?
• The role, responsibilities and other tasks.
• Ages of children.
• Hours. The position of a nanny is generally based on the hours of 40-60 per week; for a Governess it increases to 50-70 hours per week.
• Live in or live out.
• Nanny share. This can attract a higher rate but are you willing to do a nanny share.

The positions vary in so many factors but it depends upon what you are looking for and the family you wish to work for.

You need to decide what it is you are looking for and only apply for those nanny positions.

Just because you are looking for a particular nanny position does not mean that you should make major compromises on your lifestyle and wants, it does mean that you need to be aware of what it is you want and find the right family for you.

There are such vast differences between nannying positions. It is hard to define what a nanny position is, be it a live in or a live out position, but you will find that a position will be more suited to a one candidate rather than another.

And what looks good on paper may not be all it is cracked up to be once you meet them. You should take into account the position, what is on offer and weigh up what you are looking for to see if it is the right position for you.

It is important that you ask any questions, discuss any concerns and clarify everything before signing a contract or commencing employment.