Difficulty finding a new family to work for

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I created a professional portfolio with my resume, rreference letters, certificates, a couple kid friendly recipes, and a sample lesson plans for a day along with pictures of activities I set up in the past. When I job search I always state that I have a professional portfolio. It's a common tip but few nannies have distinguished themselves by actually doing it. SOme people are shocked when I hand them my portfolio during the interview.

Our nanny didn't have a portfolio per se, but in her application, she offered to send her resume, references, and cpr/first aid cards via email. Her organization and professionalism--not to mention the numerous glowing references--got her the interview and eventually the job. She turned out to be just as organized, professional, and talented as she appeared to be at first blush. I am always shocked at how poorly most nannies--even some very good ones--present themselves during the initial application process.

[Anonymous]

I am always surprised to hear about nannies just handing out their references before meeting a family.

[Anonymous]

1. It is hard to find a starting job for more than $15 an hour average/gross for jobs that are over 40 hours. Its easier to find one if the # of total hours are 40 or less. Jobs where the family lives close to work or one parent works from home are more likely to be 40 and under and pay higher due to fewer hours.

Keep in mind that every nanny wants the higher paying jobs. It will take more time and the OP will be competing against nannies with more experience.

2. Shares are a good option but it doesn't look like the OP has experience in a share or with multiples. Shares are anywhere from $15-$20 an hour. Shares are not usually long term BUT they give you experience with multiples.

3. The OP isn't describing anything that warrants a higher salary. She's basically claiming that she's great because she can take a baby to classes and activities and only do baby related bottle washing and baby laundry. Her description is VERY bare minimum. You don't pay someone $18 an hour starting because they brag about not watching TV.

Some things that might make the OP more marketable: a.) add to the list of things you will do while the child napping (without being dishonest ..ie organize the closets) - cooking, meal prep, housekeeping b.) learn infant sign language c.) describe more engaging and creative activities for a sample day so it doesn't sound like you just want to sit around and chat with other nannies