How to Hire the Right Nanny or Housekeeper: A Step-by-Step Guide

Finding the right help for your home is an important decision, whether you’re hiring a nanny to care for your children or finding a housekeeper to keep your household running smoothly.

Choosing the perfect fit can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life, providing peace of mind and reliable support. This is where ILY Inc. comes in.

We specialize in domestic staff hiring and are here to guide you through the process of finding trusted, skilled professionals who match your family’s unique needs.

Preparing for Your Search

A successful hiring process starts long before you meet candidates. Proper preparation saves time and helps you find the best fit faster.

Identifying Your Needs

Before you begin your search, take time to clearly define what you’re looking for:

What are the essential duties? (Childcare, cooking, cleaning, driving, organizing, etc.)
What schedule do you need? (Full-time, part-time, live-in, live-out)
Are there any special skills required? (CPR certification, experience with newborns, managing large homes)

Being specific about your needs will attract qualified candidates and avoid mismatches later on.

Crafting a Job Description

A clear and detailed job description is crucial when hiring household staff. Make sure your listing includes:

Role title (Nanny, Housekeeper, Nanny/Household Manager, etc.)
A list of core responsibilities
Work schedule and flexibility expectations
Required qualifications and certifications
Pay range (if applicable)

Clear expectations up front help you connect with candidates who are the right fit—and set the tone for a successful working relationship.

The Interview Process

The interview phase is your chance to dig deeper and assess each candidate’s experience, style, and personality.

Questions to Ask Candidates

Prepare thoughtful interview questions that go beyond basic yes-or-no answers. Some helpful questions include:

“What made you choose this profession?”
“Can you describe a typical day when caring for a child / maintaining a household?”
“How do you handle emergencies?”
“What’s your approach to discipline/organization?”

For domestic staff hiring, it’s also important to ask about:

Willingness to adjust to changing schedules
Comfort level with pets, if applicable
Familiarity with eco-friendly or allergy-sensitive cleaning products

Listening carefully to their answers can reveal how candidates think, problem-solve, and communicate.

Evaluating References and Background Checks

Never skip the due diligence stage.
Checking references and conducting background checks are crucial steps for peace of mind.

Ask references:

“How long did the person work for you?”
“What were their main responsibilities?”
“Would you hire them again?”

For nannies, consider verifying CPR certification and previous childcare experience. For housekeepers, ask about handling specialty tasks like fine linens or antique care.

Professional vetting ensures that you’re hiring a nanny or finding a housekeeper who is trustworthy and competent.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right household staff isn’t just about skills—it’s about comfort, compatibility, and trust.

Trusting Your Instincts

Even if a candidate looks perfect on paper, always listen to your gut.

If something feels off, it’s worth taking more time. On the other hand, when a candidate clicks naturally with you—and more importantly, with your family—it’s usually a strong sign you’ve found the right match.

Setting Clear Expectations

Once you’ve made your choice, clear communication is key to a successful working relationship.

Set expectations around:

Work hours and schedule changes
Vacation policies and sick leave
Preferred methods of communication
Daily or weekly check-ins

Putting agreements in writing helps avoid misunderstandings and sets the tone for a respectful, professional partnership.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Nanny or Housekeeper?

ILY Inc. takes the guesswork out of hiring domestic staff, connecting you with experienced, trustworthy professionals who fit seamlessly into your life.