Why the Best Nannies Are Rarely Found on Job Boards
Short answer: The best nannies are rarely found on job boards because exceptional caregivers are typically placed through trusted referrals or high-touch agencies. Families who value consistency, discretion, and long-term fit often need a more intentional, relationship-driven approach to hiring childcare.
When families begin searching for a nanny, job boards often feel like the obvious first step. They’re accessible, fast, and promise plenty of options.
But here’s something many families don’t realize until much later in the process: the best nannies are rarely active on job boards at all.
Especially for families with full schedules, high expectations, or complex needs, the nanny search isn’t about volume. It’s about alignment, judgment, and long-term fit.
The best nannies aren’t “on the market”
Exceptional career nannies tend to have one thing in common: they are rarely unemployed.
They are often:
Happily placed in long-term roles
Referred quietly from one trusted family to another
Working through personal networks or vetted agencies
Selective about when and where they move next
When these nannies consider a change, it’s usually because someone they trust brought the opportunity to them.
Job boards reward speed, not discernment
Most job boards are designed to optimize for volume:
Who applies fastest
Who applies to the most roles
Who checks the most boxes on paper
But childcare isn’t transactional. It requires nuance that algorithms can’t measure:
Sound judgment under pressure
Emotional intelligence
Discretion and professionalism
Flexibility as family needs evolve
These qualities don’t always show up clearly in profiles or keyword matches.
More options don’t always lead to better decisions
Families often assume that more candidates means better odds. In reality, it often creates the opposite effect.
An overload of applicants can lead to:
Decision fatigue
Missed red flags
Rushed choices driven by urgency
Over-reliance on résumés instead of real insight
The most successful placements typically come from fewer, better-aligned introductions, not endless lists.
Exceptional nannies are discerning too
High-caliber nannies are just as selective as the families they work for.
They pay close attention to:
Communication style
Clarity of expectations
Respect for childcare as a profession
Stability and long-term outlook
Many avoid job boards altogether because it’s difficult to assess whether a role will truly be a good fit.
Where strong nanny matches actually happen
Great placements tend to come from:
Thoughtful intake conversations
Trusted referrals
Agencies that prioritize quality over speed
A deep understanding of family dynamics, not just schedules
When both sides feel seen and supported, the relationship has room to grow.
A more intentional way to hire
If your experience with job boards has felt frustrating or hit-or-miss, it’s not a failure on your part. It’s often a sign that your needs call for a more personal approach.
The right nanny isn’t just someone who fills hours. They become a steady presence in your home, support your child’s development, and adapt as your life evolves.
Those relationships are rarely built through mass postings. They’re built through care, context, and connection.
At Premier Nanny Source, this is exactly how we approach placements: fewer candidates, deeper vetting, and a focus on long-term success for both families and nannies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why aren’t great nannies on job boards?
Many experienced nannies find roles through referrals or agencies. They tend to stay in positions long-term and are selective about transitions.
Are job boards bad for hiring a nanny?
Not necessarily, but they often prioritize speed and volume over fit. For families with complex needs, this can lead to mismatches.
How do high-net-worth families usually hire nannies?
They often rely on trusted referrals or high-touch agencies that vet candidates deeply and understand family dynamics.
What should families prioritize when hiring a nanny?
Judgment, emotional intelligence, discretion, adaptability, and alignment with the family’s values are often more important than résumés alone.
Is working with a nanny agency worth it?
For many families, yes. Agencies can reduce stress, save time, and increase the likelihood of a successful long-term placement.
