Having a successful relationship with your nanny is not rocket science. Like any other relationship it is dynamic and not immune to changes brought on by outside forces. Even if "Mary Poppins" landed on your door step there is no guarantee of "happiness ever after" without your unequivocal investment.
THE TOP TEN
1. BE COMMITTED TO THE RELATIONSHIP
The importance of being an accessible and committed employer who is deeply invested in the health of the relationship cannot be emphasized enough.
2. PRESENT A CLEAR JOB DESCRIPTION And EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
This is a professional position and as the employer it is your responsibility to present a reasonable and clear job description that describes responsibilities and specific duties, expectations, terms of the agreement, salary and benefits. Be in touch with your hidden needs and expectations and make sure that they are included in your description. Nannies are not mind readers. A good job description can be the basis for an employment agreement that every employer and nanny should share and sign off on. Of course, always open for review by both parties.
THE TOP TEN
1. BE COMMITTED TO THE RELATIONSHIP
The importance of being an accessible and committed employer who is deeply invested in the health of the relationship cannot be emphasized enough.
2. PRESENT A CLEAR JOB DESCRIPTION And EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
This is a professional position and as the employer it is your responsibility to present a reasonable and clear job description that describes responsibilities and specific duties, expectations, terms of the agreement, salary and benefits. Be in touch with your hidden needs and expectations and make sure that they are included in your description. Nannies are not mind readers. A good job description can be the basis for an employment agreement that every employer and nanny should share and sign off on. Of course, always open for review by both parties.
3. PROVIDE AN ORIENTATION AND TRAINING PERIOD.
Employers need to invest at least two or three days (if not more) in orienting the new nanny to their new job. Your job is unique. This is the time to set the norms and really work together in establishing routines and practices.
4. CREATE OPEN CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION
It is imperative that both nanny and employer have a venue for the sharing of both positive and constructive critical feedback. Goals should be set and reviewed and issues should not be buried under the carpet. The most successful relationships are based upon ongoing and open communication. Do not be afraid of giving constructive feedback on performance. It is key for your employee's growth and development. Do it in a positive way. Employers should be open to hear things that they might not want to hear, too. It is a good idea to schedule regular meetings.
4. CREATE OPEN CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION
It is imperative that both nanny and employer have a venue for the sharing of both positive and constructive critical feedback. Goals should be set and reviewed and issues should not be buried under the carpet. The most successful relationships are based upon ongoing and open communication. Do not be afraid of giving constructive feedback on performance. It is key for your employee's growth and development. Do it in a positive way. Employers should be open to hear things that they might not want to hear, too. It is a good idea to schedule regular meetings.
5. RESIST THE TEMPTATION TO BECOME GOOD BUDDIES. MAINTAIN A PROFESSIONAL BUT CORDIAL RELATIONSHIP.
It is difficult giving feedback to someone who as become a surrogate daughter or confidante.
6. BACK YOUR NANNY UP. AIM FOR SUPPORT AND CONSISTENCY IN TERMS OF CHILD CARE PRACTICES.
It is critical that nanny and parents be on the same page when it comes to discipline and limit setting. Undermining your nanny by giving your child mixed messages sets the stage for confusion and frustration.
6. BACK YOUR NANNY UP. AIM FOR SUPPORT AND CONSISTENCY IN TERMS OF CHILD CARE PRACTICES.
It is critical that nanny and parents be on the same page when it comes to discipline and limit setting. Undermining your nanny by giving your child mixed messages sets the stage for confusion and frustration.
7. LIGHT HOUSEWORK DOES NOT USUALLY INCLUDE TOILET SCRUBBING AND WASHING AND FOLDING EMPLOYER'S UNDERWEAR.
8. INSPIRE AND MOTIVATE THROUGH THE SETTING OF SHORT TERM AND LONG TERM GOALS THAT YOUR NANNY CAN WORK TOWARDS.
9. SCHEDULE PERFORMANCE REVIEWS ON A REGULAR BASIS.
Use as a tool for empowerment and growth; not intimidation.
10. PAY YOUR NANNY LEGALLY AND ON TIME.
11. CELEBRATE YEARLY ANNIVERSARIES. ( A bonus step)
This is a great list. Especially the be committed! So many times both the nanny and the family are scared so they don't really invest in the relationship. You have to be willing to work things out and have the tough conversations. But it can be worth it! That is why I have been with my current family for going on 8 years- not because of the money, the perks or any other reason that we all committed to respecting each other and working on our relationship. Great list!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing the tips. Wish I had read these a year ago when our nanny first started. So much of this is true and it's never to late to work on some of this.
ReplyDeleteOur nanny is one of the most important people in our lives.
HI Marsha, As a Nanny you placed with a great family 7 years ago- everything you stated above is 100% key for both parties. I found that as the children grow, the job description has to change accordingly. Good open communications is the most important factor to acheive and maintain a great working relationship that works for everyone.
ReplyDelete