Every Mom’s Best Friend family is given a consecutive week of trial – with no agency fees – before officially hiring their nanny. We think that this, as well as our 4-month free replacement guarantee, is a key differentiator, in providing families with peace of mind about their hiring decision.
The time to schedule a trial is when you have already had at least one interview (phone, video, in-person) and you are feeling very positive about a match. Now it’s the moment of truth – a working interview for both families and nannies to get to know each other and decide whether it will be a good long- term match.
Here are our trial time recommendations…
- Set a pay rate: Let Mom’s Best Friend know the hourly rate you will be paying for your trial time. This should be within the listed range – at least at the lowest end. It is important to note that this rate does not have any impact on the final offer – there will typically still be pay negotiations if/when you move forward.
- Start things off right: Provide an outline of the structure you would like the nanny to follow. Don’t focus too much on training, as this may hinder a nanny from getting into her regular groove with your child(ren).
- Mirror the actual day/job: The trial time should look as close to a typical week as possible to really get a feel for the job. This often includes the schedule, the duties, and perhaps a small test run of duties that are relevant to your job (e.g., children’s laundry, a craft, organizing some toys).
- Give the nanny space with your child(ren): You might be tempted to keep an eye on things (AKA hover), but this should be a laid-back way for your child(ren) to meet the nanny without the pressure of a typical “interview”. Be sure to work in some time where they are left alone (e.g., you can take a work meeting, you can have the nanny take them to the park or go outside) to let the nanny be fully in charge, be able to be silly, etc.
- Observe: Personality is the biggest thing you are trying to feel out during these days. Again, I wouldn’t worry too much about the execution of the individual tasks in your home, because that takes time to learn, refine, and gain efficiencies. Your working relationship is the most important. Look for energy, initiative, and how they interact with the child(ren). If your child(ren) are old enough, get their feedback as well! Try to give some grace for the Nanny to be a bit nervous, and potentially a little apprehensive about what is appropriate to take on right away.
The main thing to consider at the end of the trial time is… can you see them in your home? Are they going to blend (not identically match) well with your family’s personality, vibe, etc. We would love your specific feedback at the end of your trial!
To start a nanny search, please schedule a phone call on Jessica’s calendar.