Employer-picked vacation week

[Anonymous]

We are offering two weeks -- one we pick and one the nanny picks. How soon is too soon after hire for the "we pick" week? (We already have something booked for five weeks after the start date would be. That feels quick.) Also, I have more than two weeks vacation from my job so I plan to actually take more. Do I just say the first 5 days were my pick and then as I take more time off and don't need her just let her know she has a free day off coming?

[Anonymous]

It does seem quick, but if it's booked, it's booked.

Do you plan to pay her for the free days off? if not, she may not be happy. Many nannies live paycheck to paycheck and can't afford to not be earning pay. We think it's luxurious to have a free day off, but we're not scrimping for rent, you know?

[Anonymous]

Yes. Go ahead and tell her the first week, which you already have scheduled, is "your pick." That way, if future vacations get canceled, or you don't want to have to plan them well in advance, you won't have to worry about it.

Guaranteed hours mean you pay her anyway if you go away, but the "you pick" week should be something you tell her about at least a month in advance (sooner if you can) so that she can make plans herself.

[Anonymous]

OK thanks. I definitely plan to pay for any time I take off and don't need her outside of the two weeks rather than dock her pay.