What Nannies Notice: Red & Green Flags in Family Interviews
When nannies interview with families, they’re not only being evaluated for the role, they’re also observing the family to decide if the role and family are right fit for them. Just like families look for the right personality, experience, and qualifications in a nanny, nannies are also looking for signs that a family will be respectful, professional, and enjoyable to work with. The best nanny and family matches are ones where both parties feel appreciated, valued and comfortable!
We know every family wants the best nanny for their children. Here are some of the red flags and green flags nannies commonly mention to our agency after interviewing or trialing with a potential family so you can make sure you are attracting top notch candidates!
🚩 Red Flags Families Should Avoid:
Unclear scheduling needs – When a family is all over the place and unsure of their needs, this is a big red flag for nannies that the position might not be stable.
Poor communication between parents – If parents seem disconnected or not on the same page, it can create confusion and conflict down the road.
Micromanaging tendencies – Nannies look for trust and autonomy which can take time to build, but if they feel like they will be constantly micromanaged this can create an uncomfortable work environment for a nanny. This is especially important to be mindful of if you work from home or are a stay at home parent.
Family not offering guaranteed hours or standard benefits – Offering standard benefits such as paid vacation, sick time, or overtime raises will let potential nannies know you value them and see them as a professional household employee.
Requesting “under the table” pay – This puts nannies in a legally and financially vulnerable position and shows you don’t respect their profession.
Banking hours – Expecting nannies to “make up” hours instead of offering guaranteed hours and PTO can lead to burnout and frustration down the road from your employee. It can also make them feel like they constantly owe you hours and they have to work on their off time.
High nanny turnover – Families who have cycled through several nannies in a short time, could signal to the nanny that the family is difficult to work for or has unrealistic expectations.
Dirty or chaotic home – As parents, it can be hard to keep your home looking clean and organized with little ones around, which nannies understand. If your home is dirty or cluttered to the point of it becoming a safety hazard or uncomfortable, it is a red flag for most nannies. When you hire a household employee, remember that your home is someone’s work space.
Parents who seem disengaged from their child – Parents who seem disengaged from their child can make a nanny feel uncomfortable and undervalued. Nannies go into this work because they truly care about children’s growth and development, so when parents appear uninterested, it can feel discouraging.
Families that won’t let their nanny go on outings – Parents who are only comfortable with the nanny being in the home or walks around the neighborhood; it can lead to burnout and isolation for the nanny.
✅ Green Flags Nannies Look For:
Families who value relationships – When parents show genuine interest in building a bond with their nanny, it creates trust and connection and makes them feel like they will be more appreciated in their role.
Encourages Activities Outside of the Home – A family who promotes outings, playdates, and engaging routines signals a positive environment for both child and nanny. It can sometimes take parents a little time to build that trust, but it’s helpful to be open about what you are comfortable with and communicate that to your nanny.
Clear expectations – Families who know what they need and communicate it upfront show that they have thought through their needs and signals that the position will be stable.
Collaborative mindset – Parents who listen to their nanny’s expertise and have a team attitude make a nanny feel like they will be valued and it will be a positive work environment.
Competitive pay and benefits – Offering fair compensation and standard benefits reflects respect for their profession and that you value them as your household employee.
Warm and welcoming environment – Nannies often notice when they feel comfortable in the home from the very first interview. Your nanny will likely be spending a lot of time in your home, so you want them to feel comfortable there.
Willingness to establish a contract – A written agreement protects both sides and shows you value them and are taking your role as their employer seriously.
Respecting boundaries when working from home – Families who give nanny space and set clear boundaries when working from home helps strengthen your nanny’s bond with your child(ren).
Final Thoughts:
The interview process is about finding the right fit on both sides. By avoiding red flags and leaning into green flags, families can stand out as professional, respectful employers and create an environment where a nanny can thrive… which ultimately benefits the children most of all!
