My Two Cents:

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Perfect example- this morning before I left for work, my nanny was outside playing with the kids on the patio. There were some leaves and dirt in the corner near her- and instead of just sitting and watching the kids play, she got the broom and dustpan and swept up the leaves. I know it was not in her job description, but her small act of thoughtfulness will make all our lives a little more pleasant. That is one of the reasons she has been with us for more than 3 years and I hope for much longer.

That's wonderful that you and your nanny have such a great working relationship. The issue a lot of nannies have had, myself included, is when it doesn't matter how far above and beyond you go some employers don't notice or are never satisfied. An employer has a role to play in the equation (which it sounds like you do!) where they acknowledge a nanny's efforts and show their appreciation. I just left a job where I bent over backwards for nearly a year to please my boss, while they were constantly late, inconsiderate, and missed payroll 6 times. Our contract didn't lay out requirements for giving notice, so I gave 3 weeks and did a lot to give them a head start in finding someone new and training her. I've received no thanks, but have received a daily berating. In a lot of nanny jobs, this is what going above and beyond gets you. SQUAT

Not the quoted PP, but I'm sorry you've had this experience. Those of us who as MBs give our nannies regular thanks, bonuses, raises, and other rewards are discouraged when the attitude on here is that families are always out to get you no matter what. Some of us aren't.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Perfect example- this morning before I left for work, my nanny was outside playing with the kids on the patio. There were some leaves and dirt in the corner near her- and instead of just sitting and watching the kids play, she got the broom and dustpan and swept up the leaves. I know it was not in her job description, but her small act of thoughtfulness will make all our lives a little more pleasant. That is one of the reasons she has been with us for more than 3 years and I hope for much longer.

That's wonderful that you and your nanny have such a great working relationship. The issue a lot of nannies have had, myself included, is when it doesn't matter how far above and beyond you go some employers don't notice or are never satisfied. An employer has a role to play in the equation (which it sounds like you do!) where they acknowledge a nanny's efforts and show their appreciation. I just left a job where I bent over backwards for nearly a year to please my boss, while they were constantly late, inconsiderate, and missed payroll 6 times. Our contract didn't lay out requirements for giving notice, so I gave 3 weeks and did a lot to give them a head start in finding someone new and training her. I've received no thanks, but have received a daily berating. In a lot of nanny jobs, this is what going above and beyond gets you. SQUAT

Unfortunately, this nanny's experience is more the norm, than not. Maybe the appreciative parents should distinguish themselves in their job descriptions by saying:

"We are eager to show our appreciation for a job well done."

[Anonymous]

I'm OP, I oftentimes see rants and posts about how MB was five minutes late or that you had to fold her laundry because she left them in the dryer. In the grand scheme of things, is it really worth it to get that upset about completing a five minute task?
My bosses go above and beyond to ensure that I am happy. They provide me with my favorite snacks, coffee, and always shower me with thanks and gifts. I appreciate them as much as they appreciate me.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I'm OP, I oftentimes see rants and posts about how MB was five minutes late or that you had to fold her laundry because she left them in the dryer. In the grand scheme of things, is it really worth it to get that upset about completing a five minute task?
My bosses go above and beyond to ensure that I am happy. They provide me with my favorite snacks, coffee, and always shower me with thanks and gifts. I appreciate them as much as they appreciate me.

What you illustrate is mutual respect.

It needs to work *both* ways, doesn't it?

[Anonymous]

+1 it does need to work both ways, although I see many entitled nannies on here.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Perfect example- this morning before I left for work, my nanny was outside playing with the kids on the patio. There were some leaves and dirt in the corner near her- and instead of just sitting and watching the kids play, she got the broom and dustpan and swept up the leaves. I know it was not in her job description, but her small act of thoughtfulness will make all our lives a little more pleasant. That is one of the reasons she has been with us for more than 3 years and I hope for much longer.

That's wonderful that you and your nanny have such a great working relationship. The issue a lot of nannies have had, myself included, is when it doesn't matter how far above and beyond you go some employers don't notice or are never satisfied. An employer has a role to play in the equation (which it sounds like you do!) where they acknowledge a nanny's efforts and show their appreciation. I just left a job where I bent over backwards for nearly a year to please my boss, while they were constantly late, inconsiderate, and missed payroll 6 times. Our contract didn't lay out requirements for giving notice, so I gave 3 weeks and did a lot to give them a head start in finding someone new and training her. I've received no thanks, but have received a daily berating. In a lot of nanny jobs, this is what going above and beyond gets you. SQUAT

Not the quoted PP, but I'm sorry you've had this experience. Those of us who as MBs give our nannies regular thanks, bonuses, raises, and other rewards are discouraged when the attitude on here is that families are always out to get you no matter what. Some of us aren't.

I recognize that, and applauded you and the PP MB for your attitude. It also doesn't do us any good to pretend that all families have your attitude. As another PP said, what we should all be looking for is a relationship of mutual respect. The idea that the responsibility to be flexible, understanding, and considerate lies solely on the nanny is a problem attitude that a lot, not all but far too many, employers have. The best way to have and keep a nanny who goes the extra mile for you is to meet her halfway there.