Why Agency Longevity Matters

By Colleen O'Connor

Since Nannies from the Heartland opened in 1990, we have seen 29 other local nanny agencies come and go. Very few agencies last more than a few years before shutting their doors, and even fewer can match Nannies from the Heartland in longevity and experience.

Why does it matter how long your nanny agency has been around?

• Expertise: A new agency will not have staff with the skills and wisdom that only many years of experience can bring. Nannies from the Heartland's staff is nationally recognized, has been awarded many industry and community honors, and includes two former International Nanny Association Presidents! We are highly qualified to guide you in your search and provide ongoing support throughout the years.
• Referral network: Long-term agencies have an extensive referral network; many of our nannies and families return to us again and again when it's time to find a new placement. They won't even consider working with a different agency. With 1,649 long-term placements made since 1990 and over 1,000 temporary placements a year, Nannies from the Heartland has an enormous client base to draw from to find the best fit for you.
• Guarantee period: Most nanny agencies offer a guarantee period during which they will find a new nanny for a family if the first placement doesn't work out. If you choose to hire an agency that's only recently opened its doors, how can you trust that they'll still be around to honor their guarantee? Our guarantee is 120 days and yet our replacement rate is an extremely low 5-6%.
• Ongoing support: As time goes on, you'll have questions that only a nanny agency can answer: "What kind of pay increase should we give our nanny?" or, "How can I communicate better with my employer family?" By choosing an agency that's been in business for many years, you can trust that they'll be available to support you down the road, whether that be in six months or six years. Nannies from the Heartland staff are always available to share their expertise and advice with client families and nannies. Contact us any time!