How far in advance do I look for a nanny?

[Anonymous]

We will need to look for a full time nanny who can start at the end of this year for an infant, 1.5 year old, and 7 year old. How far in advance should we start looking for someone? We haven't gone through this process yet so I'm not sure how long it could take and how far in advance we need to be looking. Any insight would be helpful. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

bump I'd like to know that too!

[Anonymous]

Nanny here. Probably about 2 months in advance. As a nanny, it is very frustrating job searching and being contacted by families with start dates months down the road. Make sure your ad or job listing states what month you want the nanny to start so they will know when applying.

[Anonymous]

MB here. I agree w/ the nannny. Two months is a good time, one month can work also. Too much farther out and you won't get people who are currently happily employed. But starting putting the word out among your friends, networks, neighbors, etc... that you'll be looking. You might find someone who will be needing to let their beloved nanny go at the start of the school year and is hoping to help him/her find their next job. In my experience those are the best candidates.

Good luck.

[Anonymous]

I agree with both PPs.
I have found my jobs through word of mouth.
I was with both families over 5 years.
You'll find good candidates this way.

[Anonymous]

OP here -thank you for the advice!

[Anonymous]

Is ~2 months still a typical time frame? I see this post is from 3 years ago. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Is ~2 months still a typical time frame? I see this post is from 3 years ago. Thanks!

Generally, yes.

[Anonymous]

Yes. 2 months. Nannies can't typically afford to go without income for weeks and weeks so they don't usually move into a new position until they are ready to leave the old one plus a few weeks' notice.

[Anonymous]

1 month