One of the best ways to keep getting jobs through Bubble is by building up a relationship with families. This means that when they need a sitter, you’ll be the first person they send a request to so it’s important to impress! That said, we also know that a first sit with a new family can be a little bit nerve-wracking. That’s why we’ve put together our 5 top tips for impressing as a sitter.
A punctual sitter is a good sitter!
The number one rule is to be on time. Showing up late can not only seem a little irresponsible, it can also be disruptive to parents who are running on a tight schedule. We recommend showing up at least 10 minutes early and double checking the route before you arrive. It’s also a good idea to notify parents that you’re on your way, and if it looks like you’ll be late for reasons beyond your control, make sure you let them know as soon as possible.
Communication is key
Being communicative with parents helps them to trust you and get to know you better. Childcare is no easy decision for parents, and it’s important to recognise that and do what you can to reassure them from your side. For sitters using Bubble, we recommend suggesting a trial sit or a phone call with parents before the sit to talk through any questions you may have in advance. You could also offer for parents to speak with one of your references (of course, you should check with your reference first), or bring proof of any qualifications or certificates. We’d also strongly advise you to check in with parents throughout the sit. Parents will love hearing updates about how a child is doing and help put their mind at ease.
Be considerate and polite
Being polite goes a long way in impressing parents. Small gestures like offering to take your shoes off when you enter the house and washing your hands when you get there shows parents that you are proud of your work and respect their home. It’s also important to seem approachable and friendly if you want to secure a good review. Making small talk or asking how their evening went shows interest and helps to build a rapport. It’s also a good idea to tidy up any mess you make whilst you’re on a sit, and put away any toys you use.
Ask questions about the child
Every family does things in different ways, and many children have specific needs requirements. Making sure a child sticks to their routine can help a sit to run much more smoothly, so we would advise you to ask details about bedtime, bath time or if there is any food you need to prepare. Checking if a child has allergies, where you can find a first aid kid or whether a child has a favourite cuddle toy also shows you are responsible and helps you find out all you need to know.
Come prepared
Have a think about what you may need ahead of your sit, and try to avoid making assumptions in advance. Checking things through before can definitely help avoid any awkwardness or discomfort for both parties. For example, while many parents will offer sitters food, other parents may expect a sitter to have eaten in advance. Showing that you are organised, calm and level-headed is sure to impress parents and avoid any problems arriving.
And finally our most important advice is simply to be yourself! The parents have chosen you because they trust your ability to look after their children – and that in itself shows what a wonderful sitter you are.
Looking for more tips and tricks? Why not read some of our other blogs, or take one or our Bubble Academy courses.
