If you’re getting ready to start a new job as a nanny in Chicago, we’ve compiled a list of all the top tips you need to know from the first day in your new position. Taken from those who have worked in the industry for years, as well as from the Easemakers podcast (from our partners at Nines), this blog filled with essential tips will set you up for success in your first day as a nanny and beyond. So read on to find out what you need to know when you start a nannying job.

10 Top Tips for Starting a New Job as a Nanny

1. Never be late to your nannying job

It may sound obvious but being on time is absolutely crucial when starting a role as a nanny. If you’re like us and like to be early, make sure you don’t arrive too early as this can also be frustrating for a family who lead a busy lifestyle. Our top tip is to make sure you have arrived in the neighborhood where you’ll be working with plenty of time so then you don’t have to worry about traffic, but don’t arrive any earlier than 5 minutes before the agreed time! Punctuality is often listed as one of the essential qualities in a nanny job description.

2. Take initiative

By hiring you, a family is looking for a nanny who will help make their life and childcare easier. It is absolutely fine to ask questions to clarify anything you’re unsure of (in fact, we encourage it!) But when it comes to things that are common-sense, think for yourself and use your initiative rather than asking unnecessary questions.

3. Ask for feedback

At My Household Managed we encourage our candidates to ask useful, relevant questions if it will help them fulfil their role better. Similarly, we think that asking for feedback is one of the best ways to make sure that you are on the same page as your employer and that you are setting yourself up for success in the long-term. Asking for feedback isn’t necessarily about getting validation from your employer, but ensuring that everyone is happy within the work environment. Open communication is one of the most important things that contributes to a successful placement long-term.

4. Don’t be on your phone at work

As with any professional job, you shouldn’t be on your phone for personal reasons during the day unless there is an emergency or it has been specifically set out that you can. During lunch breaks or rest periods, your time is yours to do with what you want but during your working hours, your focus should always be on the job at hand. There are times when a phone will be necessary or may be allowed. For instance, if you are doing laundry/ironing, it may be ok for you to use your phone with headphones to listen to music. Things like this should be set out in the work agreement.

When working as a nanny in Chicago, it is imperative to discuss how parents would like you to check in with them during the day. Are they happy for you take photos of the children whilst out so that you can message them? Do parents expect you to call them with an update? Whatever their preferences are, make sure you are clear and comfortable also. And remember, never upload any photos of the children you nanny onto social media.

5. Always remain professional

Sometimes any job can lead you to feel frustrated and this is also true when working as a nanny. However it is essential that you always remain professional, and that even outside of work you maintain a sense of privacy for the family that you are working with. This is true for all households but especially if you are working with a high-net-worth family in Chicago. Assume that anything said at work is being listened to and that anything you say publicly will be seen or heard also. That way, you are less likely to say something that could result in a negative consequence. Read our blog on 6 things you should never do when working as a household employee.

6. Prioritize safety

When looking after children, saftey is always of paramount importance. This is why we always recommend that nannies familiarize themselves with emergency protocols, important phone numbers, and any specific allergies/health requirements for the children in the first few days of working with a new family. Be sure about the location of nearby hospitals or emergency rooms and what your family would expect you to do in the case of an emergency. Similarly, familiarize yourself with the home you’re working in and any potential hazards you may need to be aware of.

7. Show you’re interested

Hopefully you have agreed to work with this family because you had a good rapport with them at interview and you are genuinely excited to start working as a nanny for them. In your first few days and weeks, show that you are interested in them and engage with the children about their hobbies, interests and activities. Discuss progress or particular milestones with parents and begin to create a positive working relationship with the family.

8. Stay organized

Working as a nanny in Chicago is a demanding job and requires you to be organized and flexible. Make sure you have a clear idea of what needs to be done on a daily, weekly, monthly etc basis and prioritize your time to manage your workload efficiently. It may help to create a schedule of mealtimes, nap-times, activity times etc but always maintain a certain amount of flexibility for unexpected requests or requirements from your employer.

9. Go above and beyond in your role as a nanny

Choosing to work as a nanny in Chicago is not an easy choice. It is a vocation that requires a certain type of person willing to always go above and beyond for the family that they work for. Unlike a typical 9-5, working as a nanny can often mean having to be flexible with start and end times, be adaptable in your job role and care for the children in your charge as if they were your own. With great responsibility comes great reward and we know that the best nannies are always highly sought-after by the high-net-worth families we work with in Chicago.

10. Remember to look after yourself too!

Working as a nanny is a physically- and emotionally-demanding role and so you need to ensure that you make time for yourself outside of work. Whether it’s an exercise class, socializing with friends or simply going for a walk or reading a book, carving out time for yourself will ensure that you can also be more effective at work in your role as a nanny. Seek support from family, friends or other nannies should you need to and remember that you can be a better nanny when you have time for yourself.

We hope that these tips will go some way to helping you in your first few days in your new role as a nanny. Whether it is the first time you’ve worked as a nanny, or you’re an experienced nanny in Chicago, remind yourself that when you’re starting a new role there is always a certain amount of time needed for transition. Stay positive, maintain open communication with your employer and you’re on your way to a successful long-term placement as a nanny! Good luck!

Are you looking to take the next step in your domestic employment career?

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We hire the best domestic staff qualified to fit each home’s unique needs, saving you time and providing peace of mind for clients and candidates.

Let us help you find the best nanny, house manager, housekeeper or other household employee position you may be searching for and submit an application with My Household Managed.