Step 1: Browse caregivers
Use these tools to make a list of candidates you believe may be a good and safe fit for your family.
- Online & In-Depth Profiles – Caregivers on Care.com can create in-depth profiles that include their work experience, education, availability, certifications, and requirements. View profiles to identify the caregivers who appear to best meet your needs.
- Post a Job – Posting a job is the easiest way to find a caregiver on Care.com. It allows you to outline the responsibilities of the job and the qualities you are looking for in a caregiver. Be specific about your requirements to help find the perfect candidate that fits your family’s needs.
Step 2: Narrow Your List
No to potential bad apples. Yes to the cream of the crop. Use our tools to help ensure you have quality candidates.
- Online & Third-Party Checks – Perform your own independent search on candidates to narrow your list. Search the web for their name to see if there are any news articles about them. You should also try to locate them on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and other social networks.
- Secure Messaging System – Send all of your initial messages through Care.com instead of using your personal email. That way, you only share your contact information if and when you feel comfortable.
Step 3: Interview Top Candidates
Only you will know if the fit feels right. So take your time to get to know your top candidates and decide whether they’d be a good, safe fit for your family. Trust your instincts.
- Phone Interview – Conduct phone interviews with your top candidates. This will give you a better idea of whether the care provider is someone you would like to meet.
- In-Depth Interview – After phone interviews, conduct face-to-face interviews with your remaining candidates. This will help you further determine how well each person will fit in with your family. Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions.
Step 4: Determine Your Top Candidate with Reference Checks
Think you’ve found the one? Before hiring, take the time to look for information that wouldn’t come up during a phone screen or in-depth interview. Contact previous employers to learn more about your candidate’s past work experience. Remember, things will often come out of a telephone conversation that previous employers will not put in to a written reference.