Why smartaupairs & Nannies?

It is of utmost importance to us that we have a good understanding of your family needs. Our team will refer to your registration information and our consultation call when carrying out the search. As part of the search, we will contact potential applicants for you, and only once an applicant confirms interest for your position, do we introduce them to you.

What factors do we consider when selecting applicants for you? 

We look both your and the au pair preferences and requirements such as:

• Start & end date 
• Your location
• Age(s) of the child(ren)
• Driving
• Language skills
• Pets 
• Additional requested skills, such as swimming

What do candidates look for?

Our experience shows that the following factors are important for au pairs when they consider your family as a possible host family:

• Friendly family introduction letter & family photos, including your family interests (and how these match with those of the au pair)
• Positive previous childcarer/au pair references 
• The age(s) of the child(ren) - most au pairs prefer roles which reflect the age group of children they have most experience with
• Your location - most au pairs do prefer to be located in or near a city or a town, with easier access to a language course and other au pairs/friends. London remains the most commonly requested location by au pairs

When an applicant confirms interest in your family, we provide you access to their details through our online matching portal, including all of the necessary documents and details on their childcare experience to date.  If you are interested in the selected applicant, you may proceed with interviewing the candidate(s) (typically via Skype). 

Our introduction service really is about quality, not quantity! 

Our team offers support to both you and your au pair throughout your placement. Be it the first or the final month of the placement, our team will be at hand to help with any queries you may have.

Aside of our usual office contact numbers we also have a 24h help line for emergencies (you will also be able to contact Tuuli, our director on her mobile).

We understand that in particular the first “settling in” weeks of the placement are important – so this is the period we are more extensively in contact both with you and your chosen childcarer. We have experience in helping with all common concerns and issues such as homesickness, finding friends, or queries about the routine.

When your placement is confirmed, we will send you our Family Information Pack to help you get organised in time for your au pair’s arrival. Similarly, we will send the au pair our extensive Au Pair Guide which covers a range of topics including activities to do with the children, meals to prepare for them, places to visit and practical advice such as how to register with a doctor and open a bank account, for example.

We will also send your au pair a list of other au pairs in the area.  In addition, we hold regular, smartaupairs exclusive events to help your au pair find friends. Each placement is covered by 6 week guarantee.

At Smartaupairs & Nannies, we’re here to help you attract the right candidate for your family. Providing clear and comprehensive details in your job advertisement will not only save time but also help you find the best match. Here are the key details that candidates are looking for:

1. Job Role & Responsibilities

Candidates want a clear picture of what the role entails. Make sure to include:

Duties and Expectations: Outline the main responsibilities, such as childcare, cooking, assisting with homework, organizing activities, or light household chores.

Schedule: Provide a detailed breakdown of the hours, including start and end times, weekend requirements, and any flexibility needed.

Additional Tasks: If there are additional expectations—like driving, pet care, or helping with events—mention them.

2. Information About the Children

Nannies are drawn to roles where they feel they can connect with the children. Share:

Number of Children: Include the number of children and their ages.

Special Needs: Specify if any of your children have special needs or particular requirements.

Personality and Interests: Highlight your children’s hobbies, routines, and personality traits to help the candidate envision a connection.

3. Family Dynamics & Lifestyle

Creating a picture of your family environment helps candidates see if they are a good fit. Include:

Family Background: A brief description of your family’s lifestyle (e.g., active, professional, relaxed) helps set the scene.

Parenting Style: Share your values or parenting approach, such as structured routines or a more relaxed atmosphere.

Home Environment: Describe the household culture to give candidates a feel for your home.

4. Accommodation (If Live-In)

For live-in roles, accommodation is a key factor. Clearly outline:

Living Arrangements: Specify the nanny's accommodation details (e.g., private room, en-suite, separate living area).

Amenities: Include any perks like Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, or other household facilities.

House Rules: Share any house rules or expectations for live-in caregivers.

5. Compensation & Benefits

Transparency with pay and benefits is important for attracting the right candidates. Include:

Salary Range: State the pay range or hourly rate clearly to manage expectations.

Benefits: Highlight any additional perks such as paid holidays, bonuses, travel expenses, or use of a car.

Contract Details: Specify the type of contract (temporary, permanent, full-time, part-time)

6. Location & Transport

Location can be a deciding factor, so be specific:

Job Location: Mention where you’re based and any nearby amenities or attractions.

Transport Needs: State if driving is required, if a car will be provided, or if candidates need their own vehicle.

Public Transport: Mention the proximity to bus stops, train stations, or other public transport options.

7. Specific Requirements

Be clear about any specific skills or qualifications:

Language Skills: Indicate if you require or prefer certain language skills.

Certifications: Note any qualifications like First Aid, childcare certifications, or driving licenses.

Experience: Specify the level of experience you’re looking for, particularly with certain age groups or special needs.

8. Flexibility & Holidays

Make sure to outline any expectations around flexibility:

Work Flexibility: Clarify if flexibility is needed for occasional babysitting, extra hours during school holidays, or other commitments.

Holidays: Mention any policies on holidays, vacation time, and public holidays.

9. Travel Requirements

If travel is part of the role, be upfront:

Travel with the Family: Specify if travel is expected and how frequently (e.g., holidays, weekend trips).

Accommodation on Trips: Clarify what the living arrangements will be during travel.

10. Support & Communication

Let candidates know how you like to collaborate and stay connected:

Communication Style: Describe your preferred communication style, such as weekly check-ins or daily updates.

Support Network: Mention if there’s additional help in the household (cleaners, tutors, grandparents) or local family support.

By providing clear and detailed information, you’ll attract nanny candidates who are the right fit for your family’s unique needs. Our team at Smartaupairs & Nannies is here to assist you every step of the way in finding a dedicated and caring caregiver.

We are longstanding members of IAPA (International Au Pair Association) and BAPAA (British Au Pair Agencies Association. Smartaupairs director Tuuli is also on the executive board of BAPAA.

In 2014, Smartaupairs’ au pair Irene was awarded International Au Pair of the Year during IAPA’s annual conference. 

Smartaupairs - Au Pair of the Year Winner from Tuuli on Vimeo.