By Susan Tokayer
INA Co-President
I have become so aware lately of the importance of first impressions, especially in our respective professions. In our industry, where the public, unfortunately, is hearing the generally negative stories that involve nannies, clients have become even more nervous and cautious in their search for a nurturing, trusted caregiver for their children.
In addition to families being cautious, they often seem to have little time to devote to their search. This combination is one of the reasons why first impressions count so much. For nanny agencies, the manner in which the phone is answered, the appearance of the website, meeting one of the nannies you’ve placed, and the attractiveness of your storefront, are all ways a potential client may be introduced to your agency. For nannies, it may be a resume, an interview, or a phone conversation that is the first contact a potential employer has with you.
As we begin a new year I encourage everyone to take a fresh look at what you convey in a first impression. In these times, where the job market is very competitive and the competition amongst nannie agencies is fierce, remember that you have just seconds to impress someone.
It isn’t a bad idea to ask a couple of friends or colleagues to look at your business material, or conduct a mock job interview with you. Getting other people’s feedback is invaluable as you try to assess what is working for you and what needs to be adjusted. Like a hair style that we’ve worn for many years; it may no longer work for us, but we stick with it because it’s familiar and we really don’t think much about it on a day-to-day basis. Then, your stylist suggests a new ’do, and voila, you look and feel renewed! Not to mention all the people who notice and comment on the great new look.
So, in this first quarter of 2013, I encourage all of you to review and renew!