Communication is the corner stone of any relationship. It is the first step towards that most precious commodity, trust. Good communication is comprised of honesty, openness and sincerity. Learn the difference between these three hallmarks and a nanny will find herself enjoying a great deal of job security.
Honesty
Honesty, especially when entrusted with another’s children and home, is absolutely essential. It means if during the day you did not meet the employer’s requests, perhaps you were unable to attend to certain chores or did not complete helping the children with the homework, you communicate exactly that. Your employer cannot continue to run their household if they have been misled and no one likes hearing one thing from the nanny and another from the child.
No one expects a nanny to be infallible. Freely admitting where you may have fallen short will your allow employer to work with you towards meeting those goals in the future.
Openness
Openness means informing others of anything that may be pertinent as soon as you are aware of it. If you have a doctor’s appointment, discuss that with your employer immediately. If you notice the milk is running low, put it on the grocery list and mention it at the end of day. Any knowledge you have that they may not is important.
In fact, you will gain special favor with your employer if you ask them about how to most effectively communicate. Some may prefer a note in the kitchen, others a text. Still, some employer may need to be told in person. Showing that you want to be open in a way that suits them will demonstrate your desire to succeed.
Sincerity
Sincerity is also key, and different than honesty in this regard… sincerity is consistent.
If there is a responsibility or undertaking that is being asked and you agree knowing that you’ll soon waver and change your mind what may have been an honest response at the time will not be sincere. Your employer needs to be able to plan for the future. If you agree to show up for an extra Saturday and change your mind a week later, you are forcing your employer to turn around and start over again, causing more work than if you had simply given an answer you knew you would stick with in the beginning.
Holding these values in mind may seem like a simple task, but they define invaluable nannies. If you exemplify these traits, reach out to J. Danielle & Co. For ten years, we have been a leading force in domestic staffing and want to help you find success. Click here for available positions.
