There are two popular options when it comes to choosing a nanny. You have a choice of traditional nanny agencies or online nanny services.
With traditional nanny agencies families can bypass the time and energy to go through the process of finding a nanny through the classified ads.
However, you need to think about the cost. With this service, the cost is a bit on the expensive side.
But even though the cost is high, there are many benefits of using traditional agencies.
For families that are busy, traditional agencies are the perfect choice because they do all the work. The agency will post your ads for you, they will conduct all the prescreening that is needed, check all of the references that are given, conduct face to face interviews as well as conduct all the background checks that are needed. This all takes a great amount of time and saves you all that time.
One important thing to remember when searching for a nanny agency is to do your homework so that you find one that is reputable. Make sure the agency you choose is a member of the International Nanny Association.
If you decide to go via the route of the online nanny service, you are not alone. Nanny websites are becoming increasingly popular. It combines the option of choosing your own nanny with the option of a nanny agency.
Choosing an online nanny service is an affordable choice as compared to a traditional nanny agency. Most online services will cost between $30-$100 where a traditional babysitting agency ranges from $1,000-$5,000.
And, you have full control. Instead of leaving it to someone else, you can find a nanny that is best for you and your family.
You have access to a nanny database, so you can take time to go through reviews, ratings, references, background checks and finally do personal interviews.
The best thing is that you can search for nannies in your area sitting in your living room. You can search by your specific needs such as a nanny that is a non smoker, one that has a valid driver’s license with car insurance or one that has previous experience.
The bottom line is that you have the choice.
If you want somebody else to do reference checks, interviews and you are prepared to pay for that, then a traditional agency might be perfect for you.
If you are computer savvy, prepared to conduct your own reference checks and interviews, and at the same time want to save a lot of money, then by all means go for an online nanny service. Learn how to find a babysitter or nanny.
The benefit with working with an agency versus online is more than just cost. I know that I will have real people to speak with who are knowledgeable and who i can speak with throughout my nannies employment for things like payroll taxes, insurance they can help me with a work agreement and also just lend an ear if I have something I need to discuss.
I also have their temp service I can fall back on if my nanny is sick or going on vacation, they will send me someone who can fill in for her if needed. I also believe that personal attention goes a long way. The agency gets to know me and my family and has always sent us a perfect match.