The Nanny Diaries

As I search for opportunities that will make me an employee rather than a "retiree", I have discovered and applied to some jobs that are outside my industry but that I am completely qualified to do. For example, I recently saw a listing for a nanny. The letter I composed is below. I sent it on Friday, they called me on Sunday night, and I went for an interview yesterday. It went very well. They did express that I was over-qualified and that they would prefer to find someone who is not planning on coming out of retirement but that they loved my letter and had to meet its author. They said that they would get back to me in a few weeks. I will keep you posted.


Dear J,

I recently saw your listing regarding your need for a nanny. How I came to the website that the job was posted on is a long story but the net net of it is that there was a freelance marketing position listed on the same website. This is not a website that I have ever used before.To make another long story short, I was recently laid off. I could continue this email by telling you about my nine years of experience as a marketing director but you don't need to know that. What you do need to know is that I love children (I wish to have some of my own one day) and I am great with them.  I am an “auntie” to two children who are 9 ½ and 11 years old. They are the children of one of my closest friends who I met seven years ago when we both worked at Company XYZ. I am the go-to person when it comes to organizing baby showers and birthday parties, which comes naturally to me. (I have produced many events in the last nine years and whether producing a fashion show or an editor’s dinner, the skills and vendor contacts are transferable.) I am patient and fun but know when it’s time to do homework and go to bed. I know who Justin Bieber and iCarly are and if your children watch Glee and American Idol, I have been known to watch an episode or two. I can color between the lines, seen too many Japanese anime movies thanks to my friend’s son, and I could probably give Barbie a blow-out and find her a pair of manolos in her size if necessary. I recently found out that I am a very good chef and although my cuisine may be appeal to a more sophisticated palettes, I make great omelets, grilled cheese, pizza bagels, and pasta that does not begin with the letter K for Kraft Dinner. I am very healthy conscious and if your children’s after school snack is more granola bar than Oreo cookie, you won’t come home to empty ice cream containers and candy wrappers. I can do laundry. (I do not iron) I am very active and have no problem going to the park.

While I am fortunate that my schedule gives me the flexibility to take a 2PM ballet barre class, I can only sit in front of the computer and apply for jobs for so many hours of the day.

To top it all off, I live on the ????? and as you can see from the above, my schedule is flexible.

I would love to discuss the nanny position with you in greater length. I look forward to hearing from you and have a nice weekend.

Best,

Pink Lady

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