How to Run a Proper Background Check on Your Nanny

Hiring a nanny is a big decision that requires careful consideration. After all, you’re entrusting someone with the care of your children, and you want to make sure that person is trustworthy, responsible, and qualified.

One way to ensure you make the right choice is to run a thorough background check on your nanny candidate.

Here are the steps you need to take to run a proper background check on your nanny.

Nanny Background Check

Identify the Information You Need

Before you begin the background check process, you need to determine what information you need. This will depend on your specific needs and concerns, but some everyday items to consider include previous babysitting duties, degrees or certifications, and references.

Get Written Consent

Before you can perform a background check, you need to get written consent from your nanny candidate. This is a legal requirement, and failure to obtain permission could result in repercussions. Ensure they sign a consent form that clearly outlines what information you’ll be gathering and how you’ll use it.

Choose a Reputable Background Check Provider

Once you have written consent, you need to choose a reputable background check provider. Many online providers offer background check services, but not all are created equal. Look for a provider accredited by the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS), which has a good reputation in the industry.

Conduct the Background Check

The actual background check process will vary depending on the provider you choose and the information you need. However, some of the most common include:

• Employment history and references: Contact your nanny’s previous employers and ask for references. This can help you verify their employment history and get a sense of their work ethic and personality.
• Education and qualifications: Verify that your nanny has the education and qualifications they claim to have. This could include checking their degree, certifications, or training.
• Driving record: If your nanny will be driving your children, it is vital to check their driving record for any accidents or traffic violations.
• Criminal history: Check for any criminal convictions or arrests. Remember that some states have restrictions on what criminal history can be considered in employment decisions.
• Social media activity: Check your nanny’s social media profiles for any concerning activity or behavior.
• Credit history: While credit history may not be directly relevant to your nanny’s ability to care for your children, it can provide insight into their financial responsibility.

Evaluate the Results

Once you have the background check results, it is essential to evaluate them carefully. Look for any red flags or concerns that may indicate that your candidate is not a good fit for your family. Keep in mind that some items, such as criminal history, may require additional investigation or context.

Communicate With Your Candidate

If the background check reveals any concerns or issues, it is crucial to communicate with your candidate about them. Give them a chance to explain or provide additional information. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may decide to withdraw the job offer or work with your candidate to address the concern.

If they’re open about any red flags and are prepared to discuss these with you, that could show that they have good character. Mistakes in the past, especially years ago, may have been a learning opportunity. Open lines of communication are imperative here.

Use the Information Responsibly

Finally, responsibly using the information you gather from the background check is essential. Keep it confidential and only use it for employment decisions. Do not use the information to discriminate against your candidate or violate their rights.

Follow the Process For Best Results

Running a proper background check on your nanny is an important step in ensuring that you’re doing your due diligence before hiring.

By following these steps, then evaluating and using them properly, you can gather the information you need to make the best choice for your family.

Don’t immediately discount them if any red flags appear. Instead, open a dialogue and give them a chance to explain themselves.

Done correctly, you can find the perfect nanny.