Filipinos Of NY

Important Notes to Remember During the Interview

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• For a successful interview, a little preparation goes a long way. Ensure you arrive on time and have the correct documents, a current CV, copies of references, and your driver's license. Always ensure you have detailed directions to the house, especially if you are new to the area.

• Remember, the interview is a two-way process; you are there to find out if they are a suitable family for you, too. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and give your opinion.

• Be prepared to answer broader questions and give specific details about previous work experience. Many topics can arise, such as why you chose to be a nanny, what you enjoy most/least about the job, discipline, activities you feel are suitable, coping in emergencies, and your personal life.

• You should try to ensure all the details of the job are discussed so that you can satisfy yourself that the position is right for you. Having a checklist of the points you want to cover can be helpful.

• Please learn about the parents’ views on discipline, television, and how the children spend their days. Also, if housework is included, however small, it should be clarified to avoid resentment at a later date.

• Find out whether the family encourages nanny circles and play dates in their homes.

• Clarify your hours of work. Live-out nannies usually have more specific hours, while live-in nannies typically have to be more flexible. You need to know, though, what hours are expected so that you can arrange your life outside of work.

• If you are to be live-in, ensure you see the accommodation provided and are happy with it. Privacy is very important.

• Discuss any arrangements about cars and driving. If you use their car, will it be available for your use on the weekends and if so, who pays for the petrol? How much will they reimburse you for petrol if you use your car?

• If you are live-in, discuss the house rules. Can you entertain friends outside of work hours, and will boyfriends be able to visit? It is important to check the use of the telephone, TV, etc.

• Find out how many weeks you have for paid holiday and when they can be taken. Also, discuss whether you are expected to travel with the family on their holidays.

• Remember I will be talking to employers too, and am there to make sure you are a suitable match.

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When you are offered and accept a position

We advise that a contract be exchanged between both parties to avoid misunderstandings. It is good for both parties to have something to refer back to if, at any point, issues get raised. I have samples of contracts if you would like to see one.

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A salary must have been agreed upon, and the employer must pay the appropriate tax and national insurance payments. The gross figure (what you earn in a year) should appear in your contract.

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After a short while of employment, meeting with your employer to discuss how the position is going is always good. It gives both of you the chance to raise any questions or discuss any arising worries. Try to be completely honest, as minor issues can foster resentment. Most things can be worked out if talked through. Remember, we are just a phone call away for advice and will keep in touch regularly.

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Basic Job Description

• General daily care of the children with sole charge Monday to Friday for up to 12 hours daily for a live-in post and up to 10 hours daily. Babysitting and weekend arrangements should be specified for live-in nannies. Normally, babysitting is required two nights a week if you live at home.

• Duties will include preparing meals, sterilizing bottles, preparing feeds, Washing, ironing, and putting away the children’s clothes, making sure they have appropriate clean clothes available each day. Tidying the children’s bedrooms and playrooms.

• Taking the children to activities during the week. Taking them to school/nursery and picking them up.

• Ensuring the children meet other children for regular play opportunities.

• Taking the children to the Health Centre for checkups, vaccinations, etc, and to the dentist when necessary.

• Checking and ensuring sufficient supplies such as bread, milk, nappies, wipes, etc for each day, buying items at local shops if necessary, and keeping an account of all money spent.

• Organizing birthday parties for the children.

• A live-in nanny should have a private room or a separate bathroom or share it with the children. One should be provided if a car is needed, and the employer should pay tax and insurance. It will be up to the individual employer if the use of the car is extended to out-of-work hours.

• The salary will vary according to duties, experience, qualifications, and how many children are to be cared for. An average live-in wage is from $1000 to $1500 weekly. An average daily wage is from $200 to $300 net daily. Salary is a net amount (‘in your hand’), and the employer is responsible for paying Tax and Insurance.

• The paid annual holiday is usually four weeks, two weeks of your choice and two weeks of the employer’s.

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Hiring Process:

1. Complete the 2-step application

2. We send your resume/application to several clients

3. We will inform you immediately if you have been selected to be interviewed

4. You will undergo a 1-week paid trial if selected

5. Comply with the second batch of requirements

6. Congratulations on the new job! We will inform you of your starting day.

 

Salaries:

Housekeeper/Nanny/Butler/Houseman pay grade in NY based on 50-hour work week:

• Level I - $19-20/hr beginner's rate (no experience but done basic training)  (minimum $1000-1100/week)

• Level II - $21-24/hr for 6 months -1 year (min $1200-1300/week)

• Level III - $25-28/hr 2-5 years experience ($1400-1500/week)

• Level IV - Over 5 yrs experience at least $29-35/hr or $1600-1900/week

• Executive housekeeper at least $36-60/hr or $2000/week and above