How do I apply for work through an Agency?

Reputable and established nanny referral agencies are highly skilled at pre-screening family requirements and referring candidates with the appropriate job skills for the specific job. Whether you are applying for your first nanny job, or looking for a very specific type of position, an experienced agency can help you. Nanny referral agencies charge families for their services; nanny candidates should not expect to pay any fees.IMPORTANT!Check the agency out before committing to them. How long have they been in business? Are they members of either the International Nanny Association or the Alliance of Professional Nanny Agencies? How many placements do they make each year? Do they help you network with other local nannies? These are all important questions to ask before you apply.Working with an agency generally goes like this:

• You fill out a job application.
• You are interviewed by the agency (or their representative) either in person or over the telephone.
• The agency will verify your personal references and previous employment. This may take several days to two weeks, depending on how cooperative and available your references are.
• The agency will discuss one or more current job vacancies with you. If you are interested, they will refer you to the family. The family is generally provided a copy of your application and the results of your reference checks.
• You will be called by the family. At this time you should be prepared to ask them about their position (hours, duties, salary and benefits, living accommodations if applicable), to describe themselves and their children, and general child rearing philosophies. You in turn will be asked many questions by the family. Personality match between nanny and family is VERY IMPORTANT! If you don't click, the contact may be dropped there.
• You pass the initial telephone interview. The family may wish to arrange a meeting if you live locally or may make arrangements for you to come and spend a few days with the family if you live a great distance away. OR they may make you a contingent offer of employment.
• The agency will order a background investigation from a private investigative agency to check for various negative facts about your background, including criminal records.
• The agency should help you negotiate your work agreement, or contract. They can help you understand local salary conditions, benefits, and spell out all terms of employment. Use the agency in this capacity, but don't be afraid to think for yourself and express your needs.
• Most agencies will check in with you after the first week or two of employment, and again after the first month. If you are having any problems, you should let the agency know so they can help you resolve issues. The agency should also provide you a list of other area nannies that they have placed so you can make some new friends.