BE
A GREAT COMMUNICATOR by
Marni Kent
I believe that there is not a better subject than to talk about than
possessing good communication skills. Communication does not happen by itself,
and it certainly does not begin when you are in a position of having to
renegotiate your contract, by then it’s probably too late. Remember,
good communication needs to take place daily. I know this sounds
redundant, but it never fails, when I have the opportunity to speak to other
nannies, one of the first questions I am asked, What or how do I approach my
employers about the need for changes. Contrary, to what you may think, many
large corporations pay huge sums of money to outside consultants to come in to
their place of business and provide detailed instruction on the importance of
maintaining good and open lines of communication. As it applies to us
nannies, in order to be an instrumental part of your employer’s family, you
must communicate with both parents.
KNOWING THE
DYNAMICS OF THE FAMILY BEFORE NEGOTIATING
This is probably going to
be one of the most difficult challenges you will face when you go to renegotiate
your contract. What does this mean (knowing
the dynamics of the family) Basically, it means you have a clear and concise
understanding of the likes, dislikes, needs and desires of the family you
are working for. By possessing and maintaining a thorough working knowledge of
what is important to your employer will significantly define your commitment and
dedication you have to your employer. As a result, the confidence your employer
has in your abilities will only be strengthened and your standards rose. Lastly,
one subject that seems to be regularly overlooked is the importance is the
importance of respecting your employer’s privacy. To put it simply, what is
said or heard in the employer’s home needs to stay there. Don’t put
yourself in a position of having to explain why you compromised your
employer’s private matters.
Once you have this understanding, it doesn’t stop there, you need to always
think of better ways and ideas to accomplish daily tasks. There maybe methods
and or ideas that have been successful in the past and your existing family is
unaware of them, more importantly, they may have been looking for an alternative
anyway. Additionally, try not to limit yourself to doing what would be
considered a past practice, be a resourceful and innovative as you can possibly
be. Don’t be afraid to make
suggestions to your employer, generally they will be appreciative that you put
their interests first and always striving to enhance or refine day to day
operations.
SELECTING THE RIGHT
LOCATION
It’s
important to select a location you are both comfortable with. However, if at all
possible try and select a neutral location. By suggesting a neutral location you
are hopefully creating a level playing field that is favorable to both parties.
Try to and be accommodating to your employer but not intimidated. Two words, be
prepared and don’t expect or assume anything. A raise or contract renewal
is not an entitlement, it is earned. To this end, have all your ducks in a row
regarding why you have earned consideration for a raise or an extended contract.
GIVE THE EMPLOYERS
SOMETHING TO HANG THEIR HAT ON:
Know how the
employer will benefit from awarding you with a form of compensation and be able
to articulate this to them if needed. Put yourself in your employers shoes, try
to see their perspective and they will be more receptive to seeing yours. If the
employer feels as though you have provided them with viable reasons to give
consideration to a raise or renewal of a contract, the entire process will be
smoother and equitable for all concerned. Possible issues you can bring to the
table are, Wow the last year has gone quickly, bring pictures of the kids to
share, reminisce about your adventures with them and smile a lot.
HAVE A PACKAGE AND KNOW
THE CONTENTS:
Bring to
the table more than just a couple of options for ways to receive compensation
regarding your current salary. Also be willing to offer something of yourself to
the employer. It’s important to know that there are more ways to be
compensated the with hourly increase i.e.; more sick days or vacation days, flex
hour, vehicle allowance, one time cash bonus, just remember be flexible The most
important thing to remember about this subject is be realistic, don’t over
extend yourself and deliver on the agreed changes.