How to Build a Professional Nanny Portfolio
Even though the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an increase in the demand for nannies through 2018, it never hurts to set yourself apart from the competition. You're trying to convince a potential employer that you're trustworthy, caring, creative and organized --- and a professional portfolio gets you well on the way to that.
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Instructions
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Update or create a basic resume to place at the front of your portfolio. In addition to basic personal information like your name, address, phone number and email address, your resume should include details about your education, previous jobs and duties as a nanny (such as cooking, cleaning and tutoring) as well as other skills that may help you stand out from other candidates (such as musical ability and artistic skills). Kimberly Castro, in her article "14 Ways Nannies Can Market Themselves," suggests including photos of activities and crafts you've done with children to help your future employer visualize your relationship with kids.
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Include a list of contact information for previous employers and other relevant references. Include letters of recommendation from these people, if you have them. This section should detail your responsibilities at past jobs, ages of children you cared for, and whether you were a live-in, live-out or part-time nanny.
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Make copies of your college degree, CPR certification, childcare-related credentials, awards and driver's license. Each of these items demonstrates both your credibility as a nanny and your commitment to the job, and it also makes it easier for your potential employer to gauge your qualifications quickly and easily. Carry your Social Security card or green card on you at your interview to prove you can work legally in the United States.
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Create a nanny evaluation form to have your current employer fill out every six months. Include these evaluation forms in your nanny portfolio so that future employers can get a better idea of your strengths and adaptability to your weaknesses. If any forms are overwhelmingly negative, do not include them.
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Arrange all of your documents in a three-ring binder or other folder. Your portfolio should reflect your personality, so decorate the cover with a few tasteful designs or images of yourself with children.
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References
- Photo Credit Polka Dot Images/Polka Dot/Getty Images
