Nanny Employment Options

Finding a nanny job can be a fun and rewarding process. But it also requires a good deal of preparing. One of the best ways to prepare is by putting yourself in the moccasins of your potential employers.

Remember that the families looking to find a nanny are facing a highly involved process that is scary to them since you will be taking care of their children. From the first phone call to the sit-down interview, they will present you with a wide variety of questions and concerns. If you address most or all of these queries, then you will be much more likely to inspire the trust and confidence of your prospective employers.

When first beginning the application process, it is important that you clearly state what kind of employment you are looking for. Do you want to be a live-in nanny, or commute to your job five days a week? Would you be willing to take on extra chores for a higher salary? By making sure your needs and expectations match those of your employer, you will be able to find the best job possible. Also, remember that a family will be very concerned with your qualifications. When stating your nanny salary requirements, be sure to balance a worthwhile salary with the level of expertise that you bring to the table. Setting too high a salary requirement without the appropriate experience will results in no interviews or nanny jobs.

In order to spell it out more clearly, we've listed some of the most important aspects of finding nanny employment:

Previous Childcare or Nanny Experience
When applying for nanny jobs, most families will consider your previous childcare experience. A family will often want to hire a nanny who has worked with children of a similar age-and with the same special needs-as their children. For instance, a family with a toddler and a six year old would prefer a nanny who has experience with both ages and has previously worked with siblings. Many families also seek those with a college degree (BA or AA) in Child Development and/or related fields.

With enough experience and specialized skills, however, a college degree may be overlooked. (If you don't have a college degree, but you have been trained in language development, then families may actually favor this kind of experience).

Parents appreciate a clean and professional look from their nanny. Dressing conservatively and applying minimal makeup and jewelry reduces the focus on your appearance and brings the attention to your enthusiastic childcare abilities. An upbeat and responsible attitude reflects a trustworthy and commendable childcare provider. Meeting the above qualifications is sure to leave a memorable impression on potential employers.

Salary Range of Nanny Jobs
As the old saying goes, "you get what you pay for." Families who care for their children should be prepared to pay for quality care. Don't be afraid to ask for a competitive salary. Indeed, if you are presenting yourself as a well qualified childcare professional you should expect to receive appropriate compensation.

Nannies salaries vary widely by region and by experience of the nanny. In most parts of the country part-time nannies are in high demand and short supply and therefore command higher hourly rates. Part-time nannies earn from $6 to $18 per hour based on your experience, education and driving. Live-in and live out full-time nannies are generally paid by the week, not on an hourly basis. Depending on your experience and the area of the country it can range from about $300 per week for live-in nannies with little experience up to $800 per week for someone with a degree and years of experience. Live-out nannies earn from about $350 up to $800 per week. Nannies that own their own car and drive can expect higher salaries.

Types of Nanny Jobs
Let your prospective family know what kind of arrangement you are most comfortable with-and do this right away. There are many different options to choose from and both you and the family need to be clear from the beginning what you each expect and want.

• Nanny
  The sole purpose of a nanny is to provide care for the children. Care includes feeding, bathing, entertaining and educating them.

• Nanny Housekeeper
  This position requires not only the role of a nanny it also asks the employee to care for the upkeep of the house. Upkeep includes daily sweeping, vacuuming, laundry, and dishes and occasional dusting, moping, and any other deep cleaning.

• Nanny/Personal Assistant
  The responsibilities under this title encompass that of a nanny, and also assisting the family in errands (grocery shopping, driving children to and from activities, caring for family pets, etc.) It may be required that the assistant plan travel arrangements for family vacations and trips and also manage the family's monthly calendar of events (i.e., soccer games, school functions, and holiday events).

• Live-in nanny
  This package comes with room and board for the nanny and a salary.

• Live-out nanny
  A nanny who commutes to work each day is referred to as a live-out nanny.