Finding the right nanny for your family in Dubai is a big decision, one that affects your child’s well-being, your peace of mind, and your daily life. While qualifications and experience matter, it’s just as important to trust your gut and be alert to red flags during the hiring process.
Whether you’re interviewing through an agency, using a platform like Find My Nanny, or meeting referrals, here are 10 signs that should prompt you to pause, ask more questions, or walk away.
1. Inconsistent or Vague Work History
If a nanny struggles to explain their past jobs, has large unexplained gaps in employment, or offers very general answers about previous roles, it could mean they’re hiding something—or simply not experienced enough.
What to do: Ask for detailed references and verify their previous employment. You can also request video CVs or interviews if available on platforms like Find My Nanny.
2. Negative Talk About Previous Families
Everyone has challenging experiences, but if a nanny speaks poorly about every past employer, it could indicate difficulty with authority, accountability, or maintaining healthy working relationships.
What to do: Ask balanced questions like: “What did you enjoy most and find most challenging about your last role?”
3. Disinterest in Children During the Interview
A nanny who doesn’t engage warmly with your child or seems disinterested in child-related questions might not be passionate about the job.
What to do: Observe how they interact with your child—even during short introductions. Look for natural attentiveness, warmth, and comfort.
4. Too Eager to Start Immediately Without Clarifying Details
If a nanny is overly eager to start “right away” but avoids questions about responsibilities, schedules, or expectations, it may signal desperation over professionalism.
What to do: Take your time. A trial period can help you assess commitment and compatibility.
5. Avoiding Questions About Discipline Style or Childcare Philosophy
If your nanny shrugs off important questions about how they handle tantrums, routines, screen time, or safety, that’s a red flag.
What to do: Ask scenario-based questions and look for thoughtful, consistent answers that align with your parenting style.
6. Doesn’t Ask Any Questions
A nanny who doesn’t ask anything about your child, your routine, or your household might not be thinking seriously about the role.
What to do: A great nanny will want to know about your expectations, house rules, and your child’s needs. If they don’t ask—ask why.
7. Discomfort with Basic Responsibilities
If the nanny hesitates or seems unsure about feeding, changing diapers, putting children to nap, or preparing simple meals, that’s a practical red flag.
What to do: Clarify responsibilities clearly and request a trial shift where you can observe them in action.
8. Poor Time Management
Arriving late for interviews, not responding promptly to messages, or missing scheduled calls shows a lack of professionalism and reliability.
What to do: Punctuality matters, especially when you’ll be relying on this person daily.
9. Defensive or Dismissive of Feedback
A nanny who becomes defensive when you ask for clarification or give light feedback during interviews or a trial might struggle to communicate openly later on.
What to do: Look for a nanny who welcomes guidance, asks questions, and is willing to adapt to your home’s rhythm.
10. Gut Feeling That Something’s Off
This one’s personal—but valid. If you feel uneasy or hesitant, even if everything checks out on paper, trust that instinct. Hiring a nanny is not just a skills-based decision—it’s an emotional one, too.
What to do: You can always meet more candidates. The right match will feel aligned both logically and emotionally.
Hiring a nanny in Dubai is not just about ticking boxes—it’s about finding someone who fits your family’s values, routine, and energy. Watching for these red flags early on can save you from stress and turnover down the line.
