Pros of Working with an Agency

Ask the Agency

Thank you to Nanny Magazine for inviting Starling to answer some questions for their readers! In case you missed it, you can find our feature in the Ask the Agency column, below.

Mandie Lewis of Starling Agency Nanny Placement brings over 20 years of experience in education and childcare to this issue’s ask the agency column.

Why should a nanny get a job through an agency rather than through some of the other methods that are out there?

Professional agencies offer a great deal of support in helping nannies find fantastic employers. A great agency will match each nanny with their ideal family dynamic and help advocate for professional standards. Not only do great agencies support nannies, but they also help families understand how to be the most successful employers possible. Finding an agency that values the nanny’s expertise is key. An agency should take the time to get to know what each nanny is looking for. I often get to know my nanny network so well, that I become completely invested in their job searches.

What are the main differences between interviewing with an agency and interviewing with a potential Nanny Family?

Have you ever interviewed a family while their son streaked across the living room? I have! Hilarious, yes. Distracting, absolutely. Surprises like that can make it challenging to focus on whether the position meets your needs. A great agency can help you understand the position before meeting with the family. This leaves room to center on the fit, rather than trying to address the fine details in an unpredictable setting. When prescreening with an agency, the focus will be on your preferences and personality. The agency will then be able to narrow your job search down to positions fitting your requirements.

Starling is a stellar nanny placement agency proudly serving Greater Seattle and the Eastside. Starling nannies are passionate about education and child development! We represent professional nannies, private teachers, newborn care specialists, household managers, family assistants, personal assistants, and more. Learn more about Starling’s core values.