Hiring when I already have a nanny

[Anonymous]

If you were interviewing potential nanny candidates behind your current nanny's back, then that is unprofessional/sneaky/dishonest and I wouldn't want those character traits in a potential boss so right off the bat, I would know we wouldn't be a good fit.

It's like you wanted to have your ducks lined up neatly, then suddenly out of left field you are going to surprise your current nanny with a double whammy. She is not only going to find out she is immediately out of work, but also that a replacement has been hired and is ready to take her place immediately. How mean is that....??! I would be furious. And rightfully so!! Is that how you treat the person who cares for your precious child??

As the new nanny, I would always be watching my back around you. I could never trust you and would always be second guessing you and wondering when I would be on the chopping block next. I would always be suspicious of my job and be checking CL and childcare websites like crazy wondering if you were looking to replace me.

[Anonymous]

If you were interviewing potential nanny candidates behind your current nanny's back, then that is unprofessional/sneaky/dishonest and I wouldn't want those character traits in a potential boss so right off the bat, I would know we wouldn't be a good fit.

It's like you wanted to have your ducks lined up neatly, then suddenly out of left field you are going to surprise your current nanny with a double whammy. She is not only going to find out she is immediately out of work, but also that a replacement has been hired and is ready to take her place immediately. How mean is that....??! I would be furious. And rightfully so!! Is that how you treat the person who cares for your precious child??

As the new nanny, I would always be watching my back around you. I could never trust you and would always be second guessing you and wondering when I would be on the chopping block next. I would always be suspicious of my job and be checking CL and childcare websites like crazy wondering if you were looking to replace me.

But what about nannies who want to find a better job. They are always advised here to look for a job before they quit. How is that different than a NF interviewing before firing a nanny? Just like a nanny can't afford a break in employment, most families can't weather a break in child care.

[Anonymous]

I don't have a problem with a family looking for a nanny while they have one.

I would judge them on how they handled the situation.

If they are not giving current nanny notice. Red flag.
Unless there is abuse or she's stealing from you our not showing up from work. No notice is unacceptable.


If potential employers cannot articulate what they are looking for and why they wish to move on from current nanny. Red flag.

If they refuse to provide me a reference from previous nanny red flag.

If they have had multiple nannies in a short period of time especially if the relationships end suddenly red flag.

[Anonymous]

This whole reference from the former nanny business is just absurd.
I have taken over jobs from previous nannies and been the one to be replaced and have never asked nor been asked for references.

I usually get/give a typed document detailing the kids schedule, preferences, tips/tricks for naps and tantrums, and this is all the reference I need.

If a family was unable to provide this, I would assume things with the last nanny ended poorly, inquire about it, and take or leave the answer I received.

If I take a job with bad employers, that reflects more on my skills to read people than on the employers themselves or their past nannies.

[Anonymous]

We had a similar situation and just told the truth: We are looking for a new nanny because it was discovered that the one we had for two years was lying to us about where she was taking our child. The trust was broken and we've decided to separate ways. We are looking for honest person.

[Anonymous]

Truthfully, I have never spoken to a prior nanny.
I typically know if I will fit with a family or not
.
I still ask . I can learn a lot from the response.
I have had families offer a reference from previous nanny without prompting so...

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We had a similar situation and just told the truth: We are looking for a new nanny because it was discovered that the one we had for two years was lying to us about where she was taking our child. The trust was broken and we've decided to separate ways. We are looking for honest person.

As a nanny this wouldn't scare me at all.
I value honesty.
You can be honest about your situation without badmouthing.