Calling references-- how long before a returned call?

[Anonymous]

We're reaching out to references for two potential nannies; I think speaking to previous families will be important to our final decision. However, I've left messages for a couple employers and not heard back-- it's only been 24-36 hrs so far, and I know folks are busy, but I also could see a family just deciding that not returning a call is the kinder thing to do vs. giving a bad reference (which would, of course, significantly impact our hiring decision).

Has anyone had a similar experience? This is our first nanny hiring adventure, so not sure what is normal vs. a potential red flag.

[Anonymous]

I'm a nanny. One of my references done the same thing to me. I'm so mad at her (ex MB). Later on I found out she went on vacation. One month vacation! When I told her about this she said "why parents still need to talk to her why don't parents just read her references letter that she gave it to me?"

[Anonymous]

Give it a couple days and keep trying. I was a little lost after our nanny left and tried to get back to the potential employers as soon as possible but ended up playing phone tag with one. It is so hard when your nanny leaves - I can 't tell you!!!

[Anonymous]

Give it time. People are busy. They might not be able to take calls at work, and then after work is a mad rush for dinner and bed time with kids, by the end of which it is too late to call you back.

If you can get an email address, I recommend that route -- that way you can coordinate a time. Or, if the number is a cell phone number, try reaching out via text and asking the person for two time slots that would be convenient.