If you're part of our wonderful nanny agency community, you already know that finding the perfect match between nannies and families is like striking gold, so its important to make it work, long term, like any relationship, it needs nurturing and communication to truly thrive. That's where reviews come in!
Arranging a review with your nanny should be informal, keep it relaxed and friendly. Give her a heads-up in advance, picking a time that suits you both. Try to schedule it during her usual work hours. If the conversation runs longer and she has to stay later, make sure to pay her for the extra time. It's all about having an open discussion to keep communication open.
The 8-Week Review: Setting the Foundation
Imagine this as the honeymoon phase. After those initial weeks of adjusting, it's essential to have an open and honest conversation about how things are going. This early review helps set the tone for your working relationship and to nip any issues in the bud.
For Employers: Take a moment to appreciate the positive qualities your nanny brings to your family. Are they reliable, punctual, and attentive to your children's needs? Highlight these. Also, this is your chance to express any concerns or areas where you'd like to see improvements. Approach it with kindness and constructive feedback.
For Nannies: Share your experiences, too. What do you love about your new job? What has been challenging? Remember, honesty is key! It's also an excellent opportunity to ask for clarification if you're unsure about certain expectations or routines.
The 6-Month Review: Progress and Growth
This is like checking the map during a long road trip. By now, you're probably getting into the groove of your nanny-employer relationship, but there's always room for growth.
For Employers: Reflect on the progress your nanny has made. Have they adjusted to your family's routine and preferences? Are your children thriving in their care? Share your appreciation for their hard work and commitment, and again, discuss any concerns, if any.
For Nannies: This is your chance to talk about your accomplishments and how you've adapted to the family's needs. Celebrate your wins and acknowledge any areas where you're still working on improvement or where change is required.
The 1-Year Review: A Journey Together - Reflecting and Planning Ahead
As you reach the one-year mark in your nanny-employer relationship, you're not just celebrating a milestone; you're embarking on a new chapter in your shared journey. This is a time for reflection, appreciation, and forward thinking.
For Employers: Take a moment to express your gratitude for the tremendous impact your nanny has had on your family. Reflect on the growth and positive changes you've witnessed in your children's lives. This moment is about celebrating the successes you've achieved together.
But it's also a time for future planning. Are there any changes on the horizon? Has your family's routine or needs shifted since you first welcomed your nanny? Discuss these potential shifts to ensure you are on the same page. Open and honest communication about any upcoming changes is key to maintaining a successful working relationship. This is an opportunity to clarify your expectations for the year ahead, including checking market rates to ensure you are paying your nanny at current market rates and providing a pay rise if you've been happy with their work to date.
For Nannies: Celebrate your journey and the accomplishments you've achieved during the past year. Reflect on how your relationship with the children has evolved and how you've adapted to the family's unique needs. This is the time to express your own professional and personal goals for the future. Are there areas in which you'd like to grow or learn? Any changes in your own life that might affect your work schedule or responsibilities? Be open about these, as it will help ensure that everyone is on the same page moving forward.
This is also an excellent time to talk about compensation and whether any salary adjustments are needed. If you don't ask, you may not get.
Together, employers and nannies can use the 1-year review to ensure that their partnership remains strong and dynamic. It's a chance to look forward to the year ahead and to plan for continued growth, learning, and mutual support. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and to discuss expectations openly is what keeps a nanny-employer relationship thriving, just like any other strong friendship.
Remember, it's normal for concerns to arise; it's part of growing and evolving together. By addressing these issues head-on, you prevent misunderstandings from snowballing into major problems.
Less glowing review - make a plan.
Managing a less-than-glowing review can be a constructive opportunity for growth. If the review highlights areas needing improvement, don't fret. It's all part of the journey. Both employers and nannies can take this as a chance to work together on solutions. Set specific, achievable goals for positive change, and ensure clear communication to get there. After addressing the concerns, agree on a follow-up date for a second review, allowing time for improvements to take root. This approach keeps the door open for positive progress and maintains the spirit of partnership, with everyone committed to creating a better, more successful working relationship.
Here at Absolute Childcare we highly recommend that reviews are a regular part of any nanny-employer relationship. They help to keep the lines of communication open, promote trust, and, most importantly, ensure that little ones receive the best care possible.
If you require help or advice, please don't hesitate to get in touch, we are always on hand to assist our clients and nannies. https://www.absolutechildcare.co.uk/
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