Significance

• It is ideal to find a nanny position through placement with family or friends, but if that is not an option, it is usually much safer to use a nanny placement service than to answer ads in the classified section of the local newspaper. Both the Internet and even the local phone book can provide listings of agencies. The Network for Nannies, found on the Internet, has listings of agencies in many different locations and that collect their fees only from the employer. A link to the Network for Nannies is provided below in the Resources section. Do your best to check up on agencies, as they must register with local authorities, prior to choosing one. You may also request references of the agents, and word of mouth or the opinion of a person you know who has used the agency is very beneficial.
  
  

Features

• After you have chosen a potential agency to aid in finding a position remember to have a firm idea of what type of household you want to join, how many children and what ages you want to interact with, the geographical location and salary. Also, determine whether you want to want to provide additional services, such as language instruction, math tutoring, chauffeuring or household duties. This will help the agency find you right the match with a family that meets your requirements.
  
  

Function

• Contact the agency. They have experienced counselors who will help you to further formulate your goals and advise you as to what you can realistically expect. A good counselor will be able to help you organize and present your qualifications and will explain the ins and outs of being a nanny. This includes the tax and insurance aspects. By compiling a thorough file, she will be able to find the best fit among the families that have registered with them. You will also have to register, since most agencies want to work exclusively with their clients. But, the fees will be charged to the employer, and you should not be expected to remit a portion of your earnings back to the agency.
  
  

Potential

• At this point, the counselor will put you in touch with prospective employers, provide all contact information and promote you as a good candidate. It will, however, be up to you to meet with prospective families and sell yourself. While the counselor at the agency will do her best to match you with a suitable family, you should still take the time to do an evaluation of the family's requirements in relation to yours.
  
  

Expert Insight

• When dealing with a good agency, the counselor's job does not end with placement. She should keep in touch to monitor the situation to make certain that both parties are comfortable with the progress that is being made. In the event that the placement is not a good fit for you or the parents, the counselor should take steps to find a new nanny for the employers and a new position for you.