How to Write an Ad for a Nanny Job

Hiring a nanny is a difficult step for many families. Nannies need to be trustworthy and have a natural comfort level with children. You should try to find someone who has similar child rearing philosophies as you. It is possible to write an effective ad for a nanny job that will eliminate some job seekers before they call.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• computer or pen and paper

1. Think about your parenting philosophy. Is there a phrase or word that can describe you? Would you call yourself words like "relaxed," "strict," "crunchy," "disciplined," or "attachment-style?" Choose a word or phrase that others understand and that accurately describes you.

2. Now, think about what kind of nanny you want. Do you prefer someone young to keep up with your 7 active children, or do you prefer someone older and more experienced? If you are seeking someone young, use words like "high energy" or "athletic." If you prefer someone older, use phrases like "experienced" or "substitute grandma." You don't want to exclude someone based simply on age, but using words to describe what your perfect nanny would look like or be able to do will weed out some who won't fit your ultimate needs.

3. Be sure to list the logistics of the job. Is there a set schedule or is it flexible? Are benefits offered? Is it full or part time? Is pay set or negotiable? Also consider if you would like to have a live-in or live-out nanny and if you want someone who will do basic household chores or cleaning and cooking. Jot down these specifics.

4. Some families like to have a nanny who is bi-lingual since it exposes their children to a new language and culture. If this is important to you, be sure to include it as well.

5. Put everything together to make a short, but effective ad. A few examples include:
   "Crunchy family of 5 seeks an all natural attachment-style nanny who doesn't mind baby wearing. Full time live-in position with cleaning and cooking required. Benefits offered, pay negotiable for the right person."
   
   "Disciplined family of 4 seeks loving yet strict grandmom type nanny for their 2 preschool children. Part time morning hours with light cleaning required. Paid vacation offered, $200 a week."
   
   "Relaxed family of 7 seeks high energy nanny who likes to play outdoors. Moderate cleaning and cooking required, bi-lingual favored. Full time live-out position with benefits. Salary negotiable with experience."

Tips & Warnings

• Don't exclude someone based on age. Some young people are just as loving and caring as older people, and some older people are just as high energy as some young people. If the person matches your description, give them a chance.
• Do be honest about your family and yourself.
• Decide what you need to have in a nanny and what you can live without. No one will be as perfect with your children as you, so decide what is most important and make that a priority.
• Be sure to at least call references for your new nanny, if not require police and child abuse clearances. You can never be too safe when hiring someone to watch your children.