How Many Chicago Nannies Should I Interview? 

Finding the right nanny isn't dependent on how many Chicago nannies you interview. Instead, you should focus on how the candidates answer your questions and interact with your children. Some parents interview over 20 candidates, while others make a choice after meeting with fewer than 10 nannies.

On average, it takes over a month of interviewing several candidates to find the right nanny. However, there are a few factors that could help you find the right nanny quickly.

  1. Consider experience and credentials

  2. Pay attention to how they interact with your children

  3. Set up a trial run

  4. Check out agencies or Facebook groups

1) Consider experience and credentials

This is standard procedure and the first step to narrowing your choices when interviewing Chicago nannies. Be sure to ask for copies of all their credentials, such as a degree, CPR & first aid certification, and a list of references. You can then check in with the school or previous employers of your top selection.

Ask about the traits that make each applicant stand out, as well as what they disliked about their previous experiences, and compare these responses before choosing your top candidates.

2) Pay attention to how they interact with your children

The perfect nanny does not necessarily need a lot of certificates, but should have ample experience in dealing with children. It's important for you to pay attention to the little things such as:

  • Do they interact with your child at the interview?

  • How do they react to a fussy child?

  • Their response to possible scenarios such as a child refusing to eat and throwing up. Do they seem concerned or are they unfazed?

Focus on the tone of how they speak about their past employers’ children.

3) Set up a trial run

Pick a moment when you're home and call on a prospective hire to come in for a day or a half-day. This will give you the opportunity to see how they take care of your child and perform other necessary tasks.

4) Check Out Agencies or Facebook Groups

In cases of urgency, it's an excellent idea to use agencies or local Facebook groups. The benefit of using an agency is that every nanny is vetted. Facebook groups, on the other hand, rely on word of mouth. It doesn't guarantee a successful hire, but it can hasten the process.

In addition, you shouldn't be looking to make one hire; your goal should be to find five candidates that you would feel truly comfortable and confident leaving your child with.

So, forget about how many Chicago nannies you should interview, use the tips above to get the absolute best for your little one. Trust your instincts and take the time you need to find the perfect fit for your family.

Welcome to Sommet Nannies, a nanny agency with presence in Boston, Chicago, Washington DC, New York and nationwide. We help busy families find dedicated and caring college-educated nannies.