Nannies are essential workers in the U.S., with 2.2 million employed across the country. Their roles can vary greatly depending on the family they work for, encompassing tasks such as chauffeuring kids, cooking meals, or providing live-in care.
Working in private homes, nannies often operate behind the scenes, which can lead to their contributions being undervalued and taken advantage of. Miscommunications can arise between parents’ expectations and the realities of being or employing a nanny. To shed light on this, HuffPost spoke with nannies to gather insights and lessons learned from their experiences.
Here are some key takeaways:
1. Payment transparency is crucial. Avoid under-the-table payments to ensure financial security and access to benefits like unemployment insurance.
2. Fair compensation is non-negotiable. Nannies deserve a livable wage that reflects their professionalism and expertise.
3. Respect boundaries. Nannies should have the freedom to answer calls, leave the house when necessary, and not be restricted by unreasonable rules.
4. Clarify job responsibilities. While nannies may assist with household tasks, they should not be treated as housekeepers expected to perform extensive cleaning duties.
These insights, shared by experienced nannies, offer valuable perspectives on the challenges and expectations of working in this demanding profession.
Here is the revised text:
“When it comes to being a nanny, there are certain boundaries and expectations that should be respected. For instance, being asked to do tasks that are inconvenient or outside of your agreed-upon responsibilities can be inappropriate. It’s important to maintain a professional relationship while also being supportive of the family you work for.
Respecting the decisions made by the family is paramount. As a nanny, it’s crucial to defer to the parents’ judgment and follow their guidelines, as long as the children are safe. Providing advice or information is acceptable, but ultimately, the parents’ preferences should be followed.
Having guaranteed hours in the contract is essential for both parties. It ensures stability for the nanny and protects them in case of unexpected changes in the schedule. Additionally, it’s crucial to meet the nanny before hiring them, allowing both the family and the children to feel comfortable and establish a connection.
Communication is key, especially when it comes to time management. Arriving home late should be communicated with the nanny, as they may have other commitments after work. Lastly, setting clear expectations and preferences from the beginning helps in creating a harmonious environment for both the family and the nanny.”
In order to accomplish a task, you must demonstrate it. If you wish for a nanny to purchase an item, you must specify the brand, store, and aisle. While years of experience enable a nanny to adapt to working with a family, it does not guarantee that they will know how to meet all your preferences.” — Rosenthal. Related articles: “11 Things I Won’t Do After Working As A Housecleaner,” “14 Things I Won’t Do After Working As A Nail Technician,” “7 Things I Won’t Do After Working As A Restaurant Host.”
