Regardless of what kind of economic climate we’re in, people will always need people to watch their children while they work. That’s why nannies are more in demand than ever. Becoming a nanny is a profession that has a promising salary, and can also be incredibly fulfilling if you enjoy working with children.
However, it’s important to know that being a nanny is so much more than simply watching kids. It’s a career that demands the same commitment and organization that any other entrepreneur would need to succeed. Treating your nanny business just like a typical business is critical if you hope to find the perfect clients, and ultimately build a positive reputation for yourself.
Whether you’re just dipping your feet into the nanning world, or you’ve been in the business for years, here are some helpful business tips you’ll know.
Create a Solid Resume
The first step is creating a solid resume for yourself that lists all of your skills and experience. Remember, when you’re caring for other people’s children, you want to highlight your aptitude for things like fire prevention, CPR training, or other skills that prove you take safety seriously.
Make sure you include plenty of references, as usually when it comes to people’s children, parents want to speak with people you’ve previously worked with. In addition to listing your references, you might want to also consider including reference letters that highlight why previous clients appreciated working with you, and what your childcare philosophy entails.
Adding photos or anecdotal stories is a perk, as it makes you more relatable, and could make your resume stand out. The more comprehensive you can make your resume, the more likely you are to land work with higher-end clients.
Set Boundaries
It’s important that you’re clear about what roles you’re willing and not willing to take on from the beginning. For example, if you’re strictly interested in nannying, and not interested in any sort of transportation-related duties or housework, then make sure the family understands this before you accept the position.
Remember— the more you can get everything out on the table from the beginning, the more this will prevent misunderstandings in the future. A harmonious working relationship is essential, and sometimes in order to achieve that you have to learn how to say no!
Continue Training
As a nanny, it’s up to you to continue to invest in your training. Consider attending different workshops on child development, or even taking online courses. This can be incredibly beneficial for demonstrating to families that you’re serious about your work and very qualified to take care of their children.
Not to mention, the more you invest in your training, the more you can negotiate your salary. Continuous learning proves that you’re more qualified than other candidates, and paying you a higher salary will be well worth the investment for the parents.
