I would suggest doing 5% for each event. This is actually pretty generous and even though it puts her over market as her ability to command an extra 10% on the market isn't likely in one year, it doesn't put her way over market.

Anonymous wrote:

I would suggest doing 5% for each event. This is actually pretty generous and even though it puts her over market as her ability to command an extra 10% on the market isn't likely in one year, it doesn't put her way over market.

This is insane.

So is your follow up, OP. $15/hr is high for a nanny in Bethesda. It is not remotely a lower rate. Also, your bonuses are very high. You might be pleased enough to give that much, but it is way out of market line in this area.

Since the annual review and new baby are happening at the same time, either combine them into one ($16/hr...very well paid for the area...or split them and offer $17/hr...high, but not crazy high.)

You are overpaying from the outset.

Anonymous wrote:OP here - $15 is the combined rate. Is $15 really that high for Bethesda? I did a lot of research before we hired her and she had the lowest rate by far of the 10 people we interviewed. Or was I "taken" by everyone I interviewed? I also have coworkers in NW DC who pay more than $15 for one child...

In any event, I appreciate all of your advice. The baby and annual review are 6 months apart, so I need to do some increase now (she started over a year ago). I also wonder if the increase for the baby should occur after I go back to work, or when the baby is born? Thanks.