As a nanny, your relationship with your agency is one of the most important professional connections you can have. A strong nanny-agency relationship ensures better job placements, professional support, and long-term career growth.

Let’s explore how to build and maintain a great relationship with your nanny agency that’s built on effective communication, professionalism, and collaboration.

1) Communicate Openly and Honestly

Think of your nanny agency as a career partner. They’re there to help you find the best possible job for you. But to do that, they need the full picture. Be upfront about what you’re looking for, whether it’s specific hours, salary expectations, or the kind of family dynamic that fits you best. The more the agency knows, the better they can match you with the right opportunities, and the stronger your nanny-agency relationship becomes.

After you’ve initially connected, it’s important to stay responsive. If your agency reaches out, get back to them as soon as you can. A lot of families want to move quickly, and a quick response shows that you’re serious and reliable, which makes the agency more likely to prioritize you for great placements.

And if something isn’t working in a placement? Speak up early! Your agency wants to support you, but they can’t fix problems they don’t know about. Open communication leads to better experiences for everyone involved.

2) Be Professional and Reliable

As a nanny, professionalism is key to building a strong and lasting relationship with your agency. Agencies want to recommend nannies they can trust, so being reliable and professional will make you a top candidate for the best placements.

a) Three Ways to Show Strong Professionalism:

• Always show up on time for interviews and jobs.
• Keep your certifications and skills updated.
• Dress appropriately and maintain a professional demeanor.

b) Three Ways to Show Your Agency You’re Reliable:

• Follow through on commitments and job agreements.
• Keep communication clear and consistent.
• Handle unexpected challenges with professionalism and composure.

When agencies see that you are dependable, responsible, and prepared, they are more likely to prioritize you for high-quality placements.

3) Stay Engaged and Proactive

A great nanny-agency relationship isn’t built on a nanny waiting for the agency to find them a job. It’s built on a nanny staying engaged in their career and partnering with an agency that is going to share this goal. In order to develop this relationship (which, like any relationship, takes time!), check in regularly, even when you’re happily employed, so you remain an active part of their network.

Let your agency know when your availability changes or if you’ve gained new skills or certifications. When you show that you’re invested in your professional growth, it’s more likely that your agency will be invested in supporting you and motivated to help you reach your goals.

If your agency hosts events, workshops, or networking opportunities, attend! Not only will these events keep you in the loop, but this type of networking (yes, nannies should be networking!) helps you stand out as a dedicated, ambitious professional. Following your agency on social media and interacting with their posts is another simple way to stay connected.

4) Provide Feedback and Stay in Touch

Feedback is a two-way street. Just as you appreciate feedback from families and agencies, your agency values your insights, as well. This relationship is a partnership, after all.

a) Three Ways to Provide Your Agency Constructive Feedback While Job Hunting:

• Share what types of placements and interviews felt like a good fit versus those that didn’t.
• Offer feedback on the clarity and thoroughness of job descriptions.
• Let your agency know what elements of their job-matching process have been most helpful to you.

b) Three Ways to Provide Your Agency Constructive Feedback While in Negotiations:

• Be clear about your expectations regarding salary, benefits, and job duties.
• Let your agency know if you need more guidance on negotiation strategies.
• Share feedback on how well the agency communicates job details and offers.

c) Three Ways to Provide Your Agency Constructive Feedback While on the Job:

• Offer insights into how the initial job description compares to the actual experience.
• Communicate any changes in job expectations or challenges you’re facing.
• Keep in touch even when you’re happily employed. This helps you remain a valuable part of their network.

A strong relationship with your nanny agency benefits both you and the families you work with. By communicating openly, maintaining professionalism, staying engaged, and providing feedback, you set yourself up for long-term success in your nanny career.

Agencies are here to support you. By investing in the relationship, you’ll always have a trusted partner in your corner.