Thinking about making the leap into the nanny world? Whether you’re brand new to childcare or you’re already working as a sitter, part-time camp counselor, or daycare worker, this guide will walk you through how to get started as a nanny.

Becoming a nanny is a natural next step for many people who already love working with kids. The transition takes a little preparation, but with the right experience, paperwork, and know-how in place, you can position yourself as a standout candidate and feel confident launching your search for a great family.

Below, we cover the final steps to take before you start looking for your first nanny job. Once you’ve worked through these, you’ll be ready to start applying for nanny positions!

Here’s what you’ll want to have in place:

– Make sure you have enough experience

– Have your resume and references ready to go (make sure your resume is in PDF format)

– Run a background check….on yourself!

– Standard pay rates (and benefits) in your area

– Usual vs. unusual job duties

– Your “care” philosophy

Pro Tip #1: A resume that highlights your childcare experience and strengths is SO important these days. A strong, well-organized resume can make all the difference when a family is deciding who to call first.

Pro Tip #2: Very few nannies run a background check on themselves (which they can show to future parent employers). Set yourself apart from other nannies you might be competing against by running a background check on yourself! To check out our background check system, click here.