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Seattle Nanny Network, Inc. The Puget Sound area's Ultimate Resource for Families
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  1. Why should I work with an agency rather than find a job on my own?

    2. The process of finding a job can be overwhelming and intimidating. When looking for a nanny position in particular, you are more vulnerable as you are going to the homes of complete strangers, and considering working directly with your prospective employer caring for their children. Your relationship with your boss is not buffered by co-workers and managers, and you have no supervisors to consult with if a problem arises.

    Some nannies believe that an agency characterizes a conflict of interest, and it’s not unreasonable to conclude that all agencies may not have the best interests of the nanny in mind.

    At Seattle Nanny we have a superior reputation for customer service, and we consider our nannies our clients. If you have questions about using an agency, or this agency in particular, we suggest asking around. Our reputation precedes us and speaks volumes. We look forward to the opportunity of working with you, but advise you to be cautious if you choose to go it alone or use another agency. Please investigate the agency by insuring they are a member of the Better Business Bureau (www.thebbb.org) and have a complaint free history.

    Furthermore we have recently initiated a new Signing Bonus program in a show of appreciation to the nannies who choose to be represented, and placed through SNN. Upon acceptance and completion of your first month with your new employer, SNN will provide you with a $100 bonus for your loyalty to our agency. What other agency does that!

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  2. How do I apply with this agency?

    3. Simply complete the online application and we will contact you by phone or email. You will be asked to submit a resume, so to expedite the process you may email it to nanny@seattlenanny.com or fax to 425-803-6855.

    We look forward to hearing from you!

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  3. How much experience and education is required?

    4. We require you to have had at least two years of professional childcare experience. (This does not include caring for younger siblings, or having had your own children.) You must have five excellent references, and a clear driving record. (Keep in mind that we investigate seven years back, not three as most agencies do). You must have the equivalent of a high school diploma to be placed in a position. If you have any questions about your background, education, skills or experience, please submit them to nanny@seattlenanny.com and we will communicate with you to determine whether or not to apply.

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  4. What are typical duties?

    5. The best interests of the children will at all times remain your number one priority as a professional nanny. In addition to their safety and well-being, you will be expected to provide stimulating and educational activities which will enhance their development.

    You will be expected to maintain the condition of the working environment, picking up any messes that are created while in your care. Child related errands, carpooling, children’s laundry and meals are typically your responsibility.

    Any additional duties can be negotiated prior to your employment. It is not uncommon for a family to request light housekeeping, meal preparation, family laundry, pet care, household related errands, or vacation travel.

    It is up to you to let the agency know what you are and aren’t willing to do, and to pre-set these criteria prior to meeting with families or accepting a position, so there are no misunderstandings. As an agency we work hard to determine the needs and desires of our nannies at the beginning of the search process, to avoid confusion later.

    We understand that a happy nanny and family will continue to work together long term, which is our all around goal.

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  5. I need health insurance. Will a family provide this?

    6. If you register with Seattle Nanny and you do not have health insurance, we will make this need a top priority and send you only to families who are willing to provide this in the compensation package.

    Once placed you will be set up with our selected insurance carrier and set up with a plan that most closely suits your individual needs.

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  6. What other types of benefits do families provide?

    7. Clients who register with Seattle Nanny provide an average minimum of two weeks paid vacation, 3 to 5 paid days of sick leave, and 4 to 7 paid holidays, and gas or mileage reimbursement.

    In addition about half of our families provide health insurance benefits, and a select number provide cell phone allowances, tuition reimbursement, annual bonuses and petty cash funds for extracurricular activities.

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  7. Do I have to drive?

    8. For emergency preparedness, you must be able to drive and possess a valid drivers license and vehicle. If you wish to be placed in a position that does not require carpooling or excessive driving, simply let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

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  8. Can I bring my own children with me?

    9. We welcome applications from nannies who are also parents, however we cannot allow you to regularly take your children to work with you if placed through our agency.

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  9. How long do I have to commit to a position?

    10. We require a minimum of one year for permanent placements, but families are usually hoping for much longer. Please be very clear about your intentions for the future so that we can match you with a family who has similar needs.

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  10. Do I have to live with the family?

    11. Not at all. We do not place live in nannies as a standard rule. If you are interested in this type of position, let us know, but also keep in mind that you will be required to consider live out positions to broaden your search.

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  11. How long will it take me to find a job?

    12. If you meet the criteria of our agency, you will be in demand and should not wait more than a week or two before you begin receiving offers.

    The description of a ‘star quality’ nanny is one who is flexible, possesses excellent interpersonal skills, a high level of maturity, and has a sincere love of children and the job, which is reflected by multiple excellent references.

    Any blemish on your background report, however minor, may delay the process or render you unplaceable by this agency.

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Questions? Please call 425-803-9511 or email info@seattlenanny.com

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