Families sometimes ask, why should I engage a nanny agency when I can just conduct my own search? Why is it worthwhile to use an agency that is a member of the ANA?
The choice whether to use an agency or search for a nanny independently involves considering the time and cost involved in each option.
Benefits for Families
Candidates who have already been tried and tested:
Agencies tend to work with dedicated nannies and childcare educators exclusively. They screen nannies to determine their experience, qualifications, and passion for the job. Many nanny candidates will hold qualifications in childcare or are currently studying toward qualifications. The agency has often been using their nannies in casual roles and has a good working relationship with them. The agency uses their industry expertise and relevant knowledge of their nannies to determine the best-matched candidates to put forward for interviews with a family.
Background checking and screening is so much more than just the basic checks:
An great nanny agency ensures that each nanny has been thoroughly background checked. ANA agency members are held to this standard.
These checks include:
- Current Working with Children Check
- Current accredited First Aid and CPR
- At least two recent child-related employment referees.
An agency can also check other information as required, such as a National Police Check and driver’s licence. Agencies are experienced in interviewing nannies and undertaking relevant reference checks. The agency knows the right questions to ask, and how to engage the candidate to obtain the most out of the interview process.
The agency coordinates the interviews and trial dates:
It can be a great benefit to busy families when the agency coordinates the dates and times, and follows up the process. Some agencies can even provide you with an interview kit to assist you in interviewing your nanny candidates. An agency is also able to provide feedback to the family and candidates and takes the hard work out of potentially awkward conversations with incompatible matches.
Your private information and confidentiality is well protected through an agency, which is not also guaranteed when using websites. Only specific candidates you choose from a select pool of professional nannies are given the necessary information about your family.
Do contracts, negotiations and employment obligations sounds overwhelming?
An agency can assist you with negotiating conditions, wages, and contracts. Most agencies will provide you with a standard draft contract to use with your new nanny and basic guidance on how to implement the conditions. Agencies will also provide information on tax obligations and legalities in regards to conditions, inclusions, and insurance. This helps to ensure the expectations of both the nanny and the family are communicated from the start of employment and will help prevent many potential future challenges.
Agencies charge fees for their services, but save you time and stress by making the search for a professional nanny secure, simple, and safe.
Benefits for Nannies
Agencies are not only beneficial for families, but for nannies as well!
- The family will have been screened by the agency for your safety.
- The agency has arranged your interview and provided guidance to help you gain the job.
- The agency provides feedback after your interview or trial to assist you with future positions.
- The agency has provided guidance to the family and you in regards to legal employment obligations, job description, and rates of pay.
- The agency can assist you with negotiating your pay and working conditions.
- The agency is there to support you before and during your placement.
- The agency provides you with up to date trends, legal information, and educational workshops to attend.
- The agency can assist you to find the job you are specifically wanting.
- The agency can often provide you with casual work in between jobs.
The Australian Nanny Association has many excellent agency members who have met the ANA membership criteria. If you do choose to use an agency for your nanny search or job search, be sure to do some research to find the right agency that will work for you.