Is it a requirement that all candidates have come to meet with the agency prior to being accepted?
Although the on-line agencies do NOT require face-to-face interviews, most experienced Dallas and Fort Worth Nanny Agencies feel this is a vital part of the consideration process. They will meet and fully screen all applicants in person prior to sending them to your family to be interviewed. Many parents feel it is risky to bring a complete stranger into your home with your children.
Is it a standard policy that an agency requires all candidates pass a background check prior to being hired? Are drug tests available?
Most agencies will require that each and every candidate has submitted to a Criminal Background check and Social Security check. The more experienced agencies will also include Driving Record screens and Sex Offender checks that they will share with the hiring family. If requested, there is also an 11 panel drug screen administered to get to the next step of security. There should never be any exception to the safety of the children.
Is it safe to say that everyone that is sent for consideration is legally allowed to work in the United States?
Ask. Make sure your agency provides you with current documentation that states the candidate is legally acceptable for work in the United States. The Social Security checks will also help screen for this.
What requirements are in place in regard to certifications for your nannies?
Nannies should invest in continuing education because safety requirements change over the years. The candidates will need to have the most updated information for safety reasons. Some agencies do not require CPR certification for infants and children, however you should insist your Nanny has completed these courses or switch to another agency that scrutinized the candidates more carefully. ALL nannies should be CPR Certified for Infants and Children before they accept a position.
How does the agency guarantee work?
All placements, whether full time or part time, should come automatically with a guarantee. Generally, the length of the guarantee can vary from one month to six months. Most good agencies will support every family that hires one of their nannies and stand behind their guarantee.
Do you offer any additional Services?
The most popular service that an agency offers is usually the access to back-up sitters. Like many of us, Nannies get called to Jury duty, have Doctor’s appointments or may get ill. An experienced agency should be able to provide emergency back-up care on the day your Nanny is out. After all, the reason you hire a Nanny is because you need flexibility and cannot afford to miss the critical meetings and appointments in your schedule.