Shop Local, Buy Local

How important is it to you to "support your local business" or "shop local/buy local"?

The other night VIP Nannies was invited to a private party at the Dermalogica store in Santa Monica, CA. I have had the privledge of hearing Jane Wurwand, the owner/founder of Dermalogica speak at many Step-Up Women's Network (www.suwn.org) events, but it wasn't until last night standing in her presence, INSIDE her flagship store, where I was hit overwhelmed with inspiration.

Jane had many enlightening, motivational, and educational things to say. But one thing really hit me: ALL Dermalogica products are made in the U.S.A. They are all made in Los Angeles, and shipped to 86 countries worldwide.

Today in the media, we hear A LOT about business being shipped outside the U.S.A, aka "outsourcing" and Americans losing their jobs to "outsourcing." Jane knows it would be less expensive to "outsource" but she choose's not to. She choose to support the country which has supported her and her family for decades.

In support of Jane Wurwand and Dermalogica I purchased a few skin care products that night for myself and our office manager. We both have seen dramatic results in our skin and it's only been a few days. Not only are these locally made products, they are wonderfully made AND work!!

The majority of women (and men) use skin care products everyday. Do you know where you're skin care products are made? Where they are from? It's time to make a change and SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL (skin care) BUSINESS, DERMALOGICA! www.dermalogica.com

Thank you to Mrs. Wurwand, your family, and your team for keeping Americans employed!

The Hard & Fast on How to Land Your Dream Nanny Job

Do you wonder how some nannies are getting jobs and you've been waiting weeks, possibly months to find your dream nanny position? Here are 4 tips on how to land your dream job:

1. Set realistic expectations: Everyone wants a high paying salary, but do you have the experience and qualifications for a top-paying nanny position? If you answer is, "heck yeah", see if you meet the following criteria:

- 10+ year experience working as a professional nanny, I repeat AS A PROFESSIONAL NANNY.

- A college degree

- Longevity at your positions 3+ years (not hoping from job-to-job)

- Flexibility to travel for weeks, possible months at a time.

- Verifiable references (reference letters & UP-TO-DATE phone numbers of former employers)

- Passion. Are you living your passion. Is being a nanny, working with children, something you are passionate about. This will come across to anyone you come in contact with. Live your

passion!

*Know that with high-paying nanny positions comes lots of competition, you need to bring your A-game.

2. Presentation: How do you present yourself during your interview with an agency, and if given the opportunity with a potential employer:

- Professional attire is ALWAYS a plus, and shows that you take your career seriously.

- Your hair and nails should be well groomed. No excessive jewelry or make-up.

- Have a copy of your resume and copies of your references in hand.

- Give a firm handshake and look the interviewer in the eye when speaking

3. Salary: It's a hard topic and the majority of the nannies who I meet are not comfortable discussing salary. The truth of the matter is the economy is still struggling, and nannies need to be flexible with their salaries. As an example, nannies who used to make $20/hr. are now willing to accept a position for $18/hr. Most nannies who meet (and exceed the qualifications listed above) are set on making a top-salary. On average, if you are not flexible with your wages, you will be looking 3-6 weeks for your next position (possibly longer). Nannies who are more flexible with their wages, are more likely to get a new job- or at least an opportunity to for an interview. I know we all have bills to pay, but if possible I suggest being flexible with your salary.

4. Professional Resume: Need I say more? This is a MUST. This is a whole other blog post, and I will post "how to have a professional resume" later this month.

5. Patience: "Good things come to those who wait." If an agency says "check in with me once a week," then by all means call them once a week. Agencies (good agencies that is) receive hundreds of emails and phone calls of week of potential candidate's. I suggest emailing, rather than calling the agency you have applied with.

*VIP Nannies Inc. represents the top nannies in Southern California, those who have a genuine passion when it comes to working with children. For more information about how to become a VIP Nanny, visit www.vipnannyagency.com or LIKE them on Facebook, www.facebook.com/VIPnannies

Rainy Day Activities for Nannies and Parents in LA

It rarely rains in sunny, Los Angeles, California but the weather reports predict rain for the next few days- What's a nanny to do? Here are a few places throughout Los Angeles where you & your charges can go to stay dry (and get you out of the house):

1. The Peterson Automotive Museum, www.petersen.org

This is a wonderful place to take children of any age. The top floor is dedicated to children. A great place to schedule a play date.

2. Giggle N' Hugs, www.gigglesnhugs.com

Restaurant and indoor play-space. Good for children 4 and under.

3. The Playroom, www.theplayroomvalley.com

Great, clean LARGE indoor playroom. Pack snacks and/or lunch- it's a great place to schedule a play date.

4. The Tree House Social Club, www.thetreehousesocialclub.com

Fun, clean, indoor play space, restaurant. Great for children of all ages. Open Mon.-Thurs. and closed Fri., Sat., Sun. for private parties and events.

*All these locations are VIP Nanny approved. Do you know another great spot to go on a rainy day? Shoot us an email info@vipnannyagency.com

Mandarin Speaking Nannies needed in LA and NY

VIP Nannies Inc., Household Staffing is looking for a Mandarin Speaking nannies. We currently have two positions to fill:

1. Family in New York is requesting a Full Time, Live-In professional and experienced Mandarin Speaking Nanny for their 3 1/2 year old son. Must have 10-15 years experience working as a nanny. WONDERFUL Salary!! Family will be in Los Angles mid-July to conduct interviews.

2. Working parents in Studio City are in need of a Full-Time, Live-Out Mandarin Speaking Nanny, Monday to Friday 8:00-6:00 for their 2 and 3 year old boys. Salary is $700-750/week. Mother's side of the family speaks Mandarin and they would like the children to continue learning the language! Position will START end of July or beginning of August.

Please send resumes to jobs@vipnannyagency.com with "Mandarin Speaking Nanny" in the Subject Line. www.vipnannyagency.com