Whether you’re looking for your very first nanny job or ready to transition to a new role, finding the right position can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. The demand for skilled, professional nannies is higher than ever. But so is the competition. And with so much talent in the market, families are looking for caregivers who bring more than experience; they are looking for someone who aligns their values, communicates clearly, and shows genuine passion for what they do. Someone who fits right into their household.

The good news? With the right approach, you can stand out from the crowd and land your next nanny position faster than you might expect. Here are five expert-backed tips to help you get noticed, nail your interviews, and secure a job you’ll love.

1) Polish Your Resume and Profile

Your resume is often your chance at a first impression. In the childcare industry, your resume should reflect your professionalism, yes, but unlike a traditional professional resume, there are some key differences.

When seeking a nanny job, a standout resume should include:

• Clear, chronological experience (with your most recent jobs first).
• Detailed descriptions of your duties and accomplishments. Go beyond “provided childcare”; think more “planned educational activities for preschoolers” or “organized household routines for a family of five, including before school and post school care.”
• Certifications and training such as CPR/First Aid, Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) credentials, or early childhood education coursework.
• Professional references from past families or agencies (these are a non-negotiable!).

Tip: Use a clean, simple layout and double-check grammar. Families and agencies appreciate candidates who present themselves clearly and confidently.

2) Get Your Certifications in Order

In today’s job market, certified nannies stand out and often land jobs faster. Families feel more confident hiring caregivers who’ve invested in professional development, and with a competitive job market, certifications that level up your care are highly encouraged.

Here are certifications that can make a big difference:

• Infant and Child CPR/First Aid: A must-have for all nannies.
• Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) certification or newborn-specific training: Especially valuable if you want to work with infants.
• Special needs training or behavioral support courses: Great for families with children who have unique needs.
• Water safety or swim instruction certification: A huge bonus for families who live near pools or beaches.

The best part? If there’s something childcare-related not listed here that you have been drawn to, pursue it! The options are limitless! And finding what interests you will also help with finding a perfect-fit family, too. If you’re in between jobs, use any downtime to take an online or in-person certification course. It’s an investment that pays off quickly.

3) Ace Your Nanny Agency Interview

If you’re applying through an agency like Westside Nannies, remember: your agency interview is just as important as the one you’ll have with a family. It’s your chance to show who you are, not just as a caregiver, but as a professional.

To make a strong impression:

• Dress neatly and arrive on time (or ideally five minutes early!) either virtually or in person.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space if interviewing over video.
• Be ready to discuss your strengths, experience, and preferred work environment.
• Treat it like a professional meeting, not a casual chat. This helps the agency represent you to the right families confidently.

Agencies use these interviews to match you with families whose needs, values, and expectations align with yours. The more professional and prepared you are, the faster they can help you find a great fit and the more confidently they can speak on your behalf.

4) Be Responsive and Proactive

In nanny placements, timing matters. Once your application is in motion, quick communication can make the difference between getting the job or missing out.

Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Respond promptly to texts or emails from agencies and families.
• Keep your phone available for interview scheduling.
• Follow up politely if you haven’t heard back after a few days.

Professionalism in communication is a sign of reliability, and that’s one of the top traits families look for in a nanny. While timing isn’t the only factor—of course, there’s much more to it—it is an important one nonetheless.

5) Know What You Want (and Be Honest About It)

Ironically, one of the fastest ways to land a nanny job is to be clear about what you’re looking for. Families and agencies appreciate candidates who can articulate their preferences. It helps everyone find the right fit faster.

Consider:

• What age groups you enjoy most.
• Your ideal schedule (full-time, part-time, live-in, live-out, etc.).
• Commute limits or specific locations you prefer.
• Any special skills you bring (e.g., tutoring experience, cooking, bilingualism).

When you’re upfront about your boundaries and strengths, you’ll only be matched with families who align with your goals, which makes for smoother interviews and longer-lasting placements.

6) Bonus Tip: Stay Positive and Professional

Job searches can feel discouraging at times, especially if interviews don’t lead to immediate offers. But remember: every interaction builds your reputation. Kindness, patience, and professionalism go a long way with both families and agencies that may refer you to future opportunities, even if the one you’re pursuing doesn’t work out.

Take every interview as a chance to learn and refine how you present yourself. Confidence, preparation, and a genuine love for your work are your best tools.

Landing your next nanny job doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s about combining preparation with professionalism. By polishing your resume, keeping your certifications current, communicating clearly, and knowing your worth, you’ll stand out as the capable, dependable professional families are eager to hire.

We know how transformative the right match can be. Every placement is more than a job. It’s the start of a partnership built on trust, respect, and shared care for the children who mean the most.

Your next great opportunity could be just around the corner, and we’re here to help you find it.