Busy mothers, working mothers, or simply mothers who would like to need a helping hand in their homes often hire nannies to assist them in their day-to-day duties. Being a nanny is as good and respectable job as any other, but some nannies have given this profession a bad name by stealing from the family, or worse, kidnapping the child. There have been many reports of nannies stealing petty cash from their employers, hitting the child or taking away the child while the parents are away. We can never be too careful when it comes to deciding who we let into our homes and especially who we choose to look after our kids. That is why some parents conduct background checks on their nannies to find out if the nanny is indeed reputable, dependable and most of all, trustworthy.
When hiring a nanny, it is important to check the references of the nanny very carefully. Do a personal record search by calling her previous employers regarding her behavior and her conduct. Get at least three previous employers. Ask them questions such as the length of her employment, how did she perform in her job. Ask them why she left, if they would consider hiring her again and finally if they recommend her. Doing this gives you a better idea of her skills, abilities and history, not to mention, a more sense of peace of mind. Knowing that other people trust her will make you feel that you can too.
You should also try making an application form on your own listing information such as date and place of her birth, her previous names if she has any, her license number and her last employers. Make her fill out the names, address and phone numbers of her relatives, her schools and her previous employment. Call these addresses and numbers to verify the information.
Don’t forget to inform her that you are doing a record search on her. It is, after all, her right to refuse a background check. Beware, though, if she does as it means she might be hiding something, in which case you might be better off with someone who agrees. If she does agree to a criminal record search, prepare a statement authorizing you to do a check on her and let her sign it.
Professional background checkers are also available should you wish to avail of their services. There are local investigators or online background check services that are available to verify as much information as you want. Prepare at least one hundred dollars to get basic information.
Still, the bottom line should be your gut instinct. If everything seems fine on paper, yet you feel in your gut that the person isn’t trustworthy, go with your instincts and find someone else you are comfortable with.
By: James Dean
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