In today’s digital world, it’s easier than ever to find potential nannies online. However, while the convenience of online ads and platforms can be tempting, there are crucial reasons why this approach might not always be in your family’s best interest.
As an educational outlet, we manage several online nanny groups and pages. While we encourage parents and nannies to do their diligence before connecting, rarely does this happen. This results in less than ideal experiences for parents and children.
Based on my industry experience, here’s why I believe that you should be cautious about hiring a nanny you find online:
1. Unverified Backgrounds: Online platforms often lack comprehensive screening processes. Facebook Groups have none. Without thorough background checks, you may not have full visibility into a candidate’s history, which could pose risks to your family’s safety. While you can do them yourselves, once you’ve connected with a caregiver you like, conducting a background check may no longer feel necessary, putting you in a position to make an uneducated hiring decision.
2. Inconsistent Quality: The quality of candidates found online can vary significantly. Unlike specialized agencies, online platforms don’t always ensure that candidates have the experience and qualifications needed, which can lead to disappointing or even unsafe situations. There are no minimum requirements to look for a job on social media, which means you have no baseline standard to evaluate candidates by.
3. No Support System: When you hire through an online platform, you’re on your own if issues arise. From learning about legal pay and requirements to establishing good communication and a written work agreement, when you hire on your own you are without guidance. A reputable agency provides ongoing support and guidance to address any concerns and ensures a smooth transition for both you and your nanny.
4. Time-Consuming and Risky: Sorting through numerous profiles, conducting interviews, and verifying references can be incredibly time-consuming. We know this first hand! Without professional assistance, you risk overlooking crucial details that might affect your family’s well-being. Morningside Nannies only accepts 2-3% of all applicants.
5. Lack of Personal Connection: The right nanny for another family may not be the right fit for you. An agency takes the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring a better match that aligns with your family’s values and lifestyle.
If you have already hired a nanny, continued evaluation is necessary. Like the greater population, every nanny will have different coping skills and support systems when navigating life and its challenges. Monitoring ongoing quality of care, running annual background checks, updating your work agreement annually, and ensuring your caregiver is up to date on CPR/First Aid can help to minimize issues in your nanny/family relationship and quality of care.
At Morningside Nannies, we prioritize your peace of mind. Our team of experts meticulously screens and matches candidates to ensure you find a trusted, qualified nanny who meets your hiring standards.
If you are seeking the right nanny for your family, please give us a call. From complimentary consultations to helping parents and nannies understand best practices, we are here to help. (713) 526-3989.
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