We all have to start somewhere...
Where to start
Starting fresh in any field is scary and it's tough figuring out how to catch up with those who have been in your new field for years. I'm going to provide some great resources to those of you #nannies who are just starting out.
Join INA
The International Nanny Association has lots of tips, benefits, and information about being a nanny. They collect information for an annual international survey to see how pay rates, household duties and benefits vary from job to location, which can be found on their website.
Contract
Make sure you have a contract. It should outline your job duties, hours, pay, and so many other things. There is a free template for a nanny contract by Nanny Counsel. There is also an agreement that outlines everything under the stars, for a reasonable price: A to Z nanny contract by Lora Brawley. Some agencies also use their own, just make sure to always read them over thoroughly before using with your new work family. These two contracts listed are very different, so pick what's best for you.
Legal Pay
Look into nanny specific household pay experts that assist with legal pay, as well as direct deposit. Homework Solutions inc., GTM payroll services, and Homepay are good national ones, some areas also have local experts so make sure to ask nannies in your area for great payroll services. Make sure you are being paid legally (you can look at Homework Solutions' website to find articles explaining legal pay in detail). This is important for you but also for the nanny world. It is also illegal for families to pay you as anything other than a household employee. They can be heavily fined for this. You should receive a W-4 to fill out at the start of your employment, and receive a W-2 in the mail at the end of January for your taxes.
Blogs and Facebook groups
There are lots of nanny pages for nannies and #nannyagencies, so take a look through and find some you're interested in. Nanny groups often have both newbies to the field and seasoned or specialty nannies that can provide great tips and suggestions for problems you may experience. It's a terrific place for information and it's a wonderful place to meet other nannies in your area. There are hundreds of different types of nanny groups and blogs but definitely look into #nannycaretribe, #regardingnannies, #nannycounsel, #thenannylove, #thenannycollaborative as a starting point. Don't forget to also look for local groups which could help you meet up for playdates and nanny meet ups.
Being a nanny is a wonderful and rewarding career, however, if you start off in the wrong direction it can quickly become a miserable job. No nanny wants that for another nanny. Connect with others and enjoy this wonderful new career you're embarking on.
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