What sets the best nannies apart is professionalism. It is less about checking off a list of skills and more about how you carry yourself, communicate, and represent yourself every day. Nannies placed by Mom’s Best Friend stand out in this way. Their professionalism helps them build trust, earn a strong reputation, and create long-term career success. If you are just starting out, pay attention to these habits our most respected and requested nannies practice.
- Work Ethic and Professional Presence: Professional does not mean distant or cold. Warmth is one of the most important qualities a nanny can bring to a family. Professionalism starts with reliability, punctuality, and consistency. Families need to know they can count on you to arrive on time, follow through on commitments, and carry out their wishes even when they are not around. It also shows in how you act in public with the children. This means being attentive, engaging politely with others, and representing the family in a positive way.
- Strong Communication: Be clear, respectful, and thoughtful when asking questions, giving updates, or raising concerns. Know when to keep things brief so you are not taking up too much of your employer’s time. Every family has a different style, and part of being professional is reading the room, knowing whether your employer is introverted, private, busy, or simply prefers short updates.
- Maintaining Boundaries: Parents trust your discretion with their children and with their privacy. Avoid oversharing personal struggles or talking too much about your private life. There is a difference between building rapport and crossing boundaries. Boundaries protect both you and the family and keep the relationship strong. If a conversation starts to feel too personal, it is professional to gently steer it back to the children or the day’s routine.
- Career Apparel and Appearance: Looking professional as a nanny is about being clean, safe, and approachable. Your clothing should be functional and allow you to move freely, whether bending, running, cleaning up, or sitting on the floor. You should also look like you are at work, not lounging at home. Jeans without holes, khakis, joggers, or simple athleisure are all great options. Avoid clothing that is overly revealing. Shoes should be practical for chasing kids and standing all day. Hair should be clean and styled so it does not get in the way, pulled back if needed for safe play and handling food. Makeup is fine as long as it looks polished but not distracting. Keep fingernails neat and short, and choose simple, safe jewelry such as studs, small hoops, a wedding band, or a minimal necklace. Avoid long or sharp pieces that could scratch a child or pose a choking hazard. Parents notice and trust caregivers who are put together and ready for work. You can also consider leaving a change of clothes at work, just in case of unexpected messes!
- Appropriate Work Behavior: The best nannies model respectful language and behavior for children at all times. Personal phone calls/phone use should be kept to a minimum during work hours, and personal music should not be played around the children. Avoid gossip or negative talk about employers in front of children or others. Following these standards helps you create a positive environment, earn the family’s trust, and show children how to communicate respectfully.
Professionalism is not something you switch on and off. It shows up in the little choices you make every day, including how you speak, how you show up, and how you treat both children and the family. Practicing it consistently helps you build trust, form strong relationships, and become a caregiver that families rely on and recommend. Over time, these habits do more than support your current placement. They shape the kind of career and reputation you want to have as a nanny.