Nannies :: Mentor Program
- Are you new to the nanny profession?
- Have you recently relocated and would like to connect with a knowledgeable nanny in your new area?
- Do you ever wonder if you are making the best choice and wish you could discuss the situation with an experienced nanny?
So you want to be involved with mentoring?
Being a nanny is a unique role. Only another nanny can truly understand the dynamics that are involved in working as today’s professional nanny. If you are new to the profession or INA, you are encouraged to participate in nanny mentoring. Seasoned, INA veteran nannies are here to provide you with knowledge and experience that will lead you on the path of being the best nanny you can be!
Have a question for an INA Nanny Mentor? mentor@nanny.org
What is nanny mentoring?
The sharing of experience and the impartation of knowledge, resources, interpersonal support and guidance and through a relationship between a seasoned INA nanny and a nanny that is new to the profession or to the INA.
What is the purpose of the INA mentor program?
The purpose of the INA Nanny Mentor Program is to foster Nanny development and career enhancement through a formal, structured program that pairs nannies that are new to the profession or to the INA with seasoned, veteran INA nannies.
What will I get out of it?
Protégé participants will receive opportunity to enhance their professional development, skills and careers and to leave the program with a sense of confidence and empowerment about being a nanny. Mentor participants will receive the immeasurable benefit or contributing positively to shaping the future of a fellow nanny. All participants will receive certificates of participation and evaluation forms.
How does it work?
Once the applications are received and approved, you will be matched with a respective mentor or protégé. Upon selection, you will receive orientation into the program and a packet to get you started. Mentors and Protégés then team up to outline their personal goals for the program and to set their meeting schedule. Meeting occur no less than one per month and may meet via Internet, phone or in person.
What is the role of the participants?
Both parties must agree to carry out the respective roles and responsibilities as described below. The program requires a one-year commitment.
Mentors are expected to:
- Provide counsel and advice regarding work-related or other concerns, which protégés perceive as enhancing or impeding their job performance and career development.
- Impart knowledge that will assist protégés achieve comprehension of organization structure, culture, and values concerning professional Nannies.
- Provide objective and positive suggestions on professional demeanor and ethical standards for nannies.
- Provide objective and positive suggestions on how protégés may improve their proficiency and productivity on the job.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the mentoring relationship, and recommend appropriate changes.
Protégés are expected to:
- Clarify their expectations for mentoring program and mentoring relationship.
- Assesses career enhancement needs.
- Set clear realistic and challenging personal development and career goals.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the mentoring relationship and recommend appropriate changes.
So I want to get involved, now what?
Mentor Selection is based on the applicant’s knowledge base, commitment to the industry, and character. In selecting mentors, Nanny Mentor Co-Chairs votes on the approval of each mentor through considering the following factors:
* Is / Does the applicant:
o Willing to be a mentor or volunteer
o Have knowledge of the industry
o Possesses good coaching skills
o An effective communicator
o A positive role model
o Have 5 years experience as a full time nanny
o Have been an INA member for a minimum of 2 years
How To Apply
To apply to be a mentor you must submit the following to the Nanny Mentor Co–Chairs at:
International Nanny Association
3801 Kirby Drive, Suite 540
Houston, Texas 77098
- All applicants must submit their resume, including work history, and a cover letter indicating why they wish to be a mentor and how they can contribute to the program.
- All applicants must submit a minimum of 2 written character references.
- All mentors are encouraged to have either:
o Passed the nanny credential exam
o Have a degree in early childhood education
o Served on the Board of Directors
o Be past or current Nanny of the Year
To apply to be a protégé, call the INA Membership Office at 888.878.1477 for an application into the program or email mentor@nanny.org
Do you have a question for an INA Nanny Mentor?
Mentors are also available to INA members to address specific questions or concerns that may come up in your day to day nanny journey. Mentors are also available to direct you to a local nanny group in your area for networking and support.
mentor@nanny.org