Hiring a nanny is a significant decision that involves entrusting someone with the care and well-being of your children. This responsibility makes it crucial to ensure that the person you hire is trustworthy, experienced, and genuinely capable. One essential step in the hiring process is checking references. However, it's not uncommon for some candidates to provide fake references to secure a job. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spot a fake reference when interviewing nannies on your own.

1. Look for Red Flags in the Resume

Before you even get to the reference-checking stage, scrutinize the nanny's resume for any inconsistencies or red flags. Look for:

• Gaps in employment: Unexplained gaps might indicate periods where the candidate was unemployed or in a different line of work.

• Overlapping dates: If two or more jobs overlap, it might suggest inaccuracies or fabrications.

• Lack of detail: A vague job description might be a sign of embellishment or lack of real experience.

2. Ask for Multiple References

A trustworthy nanny should be able to provide multiple references. Ideally, these should include:

• Previous employers: Parents for whom they have worked before.

• Professional contacts: Colleagues, daycare center supervisors, or others in the childcare field.

• Personal references: Friends or family who can vouch for their character.

Having multiple references allows you to cross-check the information and get a more comprehensive picture of the candidate’s background.

3. Conduct Initial Reference Check Over the Phone

When you call a reference, start with open-ended questions to gauge their reaction and willingness to speak. A genuine reference will usually be open and detailed. Here are some questions to consider:

• How do you know the nanny?

• How long did they work for you?

• What were their main responsibilities?

• How did they handle difficult situations with the children?

• Would you rehire them if given the chance?

Listen carefully to the tone and enthusiasm of the responses. Hesitation, vagueness, or overly general answers can be warning signs.

4. Verify the Reference's Identity

To ensure the reference is legitimate, take steps to verify their identity:

• Check Caller ID: Ensure the phone number matches the one provided by the candidate.

• Search Online: Look up the reference’s name and phone number online to confirm their identity and association with the candidate.

• Ask for Details: Inquire about specifics that only a genuine employer would know, such as the nanny's start and end dates, specific tasks they handled, and any memorable incidents.

5. Look for Inconsistencies

During your reference checks, pay attention to inconsistencies between what the reference says and what the candidate has told you. Some points to compare include:

• Dates of employment: Ensure the dates provided by the reference match those on the candidate’s resume.

• Job responsibilities: Check if the responsibilities described by the reference align with the candidate’s description.

• Duration of employment: Confirm the length of employment matches what the candidate stated.

6. Use a Reference Checking Service

If you’re unsure about your ability to spot a fake reference, consider using a professional reference-checking service. These services specialize in verifying employment history and can provide a thorough and unbiased assessment of the candidate’s references.

7. Request Written References

In addition to phone calls, ask for written references. A written reference should include:

• Contact information: Full name, address, phone number, and email of the reference.

• Employment details: Start and end dates, job title, and a detailed description of duties.

• Performance assessment: An evaluation of the nanny’s performance, including strengths and areas for improvement.

Written references can provide additional verification and are harder to fabricate than verbal references.

8. Check for Professionalism

Genuine references will usually respond professionally and promptly. Be wary if:

• The reference seems reluctant to talk or provides very brief answers.

• The phone connection is poor or the reference seems distracted.

• The reference is overly enthusiastic without providing substantial details.

9. Ask Follow-Up Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions if you’re unsure about the validity of a reference. Some follow-up questions could include:

• Can you provide an example of a challenge the nanny faced and how they handled it?

• How did the nanny interact with your children on a daily basis?

• Were there any disciplinary issues or concerns during their employment?

10. Trust Your Instincts

Your instincts are a powerful tool. If something feels off during the reference check, it’s worth investigating further. Trusting your gut can help you avoid hiring someone who may not be the best fit for your family.

11. Conduct a Background Check

In addition to checking references, conduct a thorough background check on the candidate. This can include:

• Criminal record check: Ensure they have no criminal history.

• Social media review: Look at their online presence for any concerning behavior or posts.

• Verification of certifications: Confirm any childcare-related certifications or training they claim to have.

12. Interview the Nanny Thoroughly

During the interview process, ask detailed questions about their past experiences and observe their reactions. A candidate with genuine experience will provide consistent and confident answers, whereas someone fabricating their history may struggle with specifics or appear nervous.

13. Trial Period

Consider offering a trial period before making a long-term commitment. This allows you to observe the nanny’s interaction with your children and assess their suitability for the role firsthand.

Conclusion

Hiring a nanny is a critical decision that requires careful consideration and thorough vetting. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of identifying and avoiding fake references, ensuring you hire a trustworthy and competent individual to care for your children. Remember, taking the time to verify references thoroughly is an investment in your family’s safety and well-being.