How to Get Your First Babysitting Job

Landing your first babysitting job can be somewhat of a challenge. Some parents are reluctant to hire an inexperienced or young sitter. But if you follow a few basic steps, will be ready to become a babysitter in no time at all.


•Step 1
Take a certification class. Every babysitter should have some babysitting training under his or her belt. This will show that you are serious about being the best babysitter possible. Most babysitting courses offer interviewing tips and also include first aid training, The American Red Cross offers a complete Babysitter's Training Course. To enroll, check out the American Red Cross website at www.redcross.org or call your local Red Cross chapter. Many YMCA's also offer babysitting courses-contact your local YMCA for more information. Finally, find out if your school offers a babysitting course-you may be able to complete the course and also receive school credit for it.

•Step 2
Establish some references. As with any job, it's good to have some references if you are trying to land a babysitting job. Obtain a letter of reference from a favorite schoolteacher, guidance counselor or family friend. If you have younger cousins or family friends, offer to babysit for them for free a few times to get some experience. Ask if you can give their telephone number to prospective babysitting clients, so that the clients may call them as references for you.

•Step 3
Offer to have your parent or an older sibling sit with you the first few times. If you're a young sitter--or just a little nervous--have someone babysit with you the first few times. This will also give your clients peace of mind, as they will know that a responsible older person is with you as you gain your own experience. After a few times sitting with a partner, you should be confident to babysit on your own.

•Step 4
Advertise. Advertising is the key to nabbing the best babysitting jobs. Put flyers up at local businesses. Get the word out to the friends of your parents. Make a flyer and put it in mailboxes in your neighborhood. Be sure to list your hours of availability and a telephone number where you can be reached. Always call back prospective clients even if you can't take the job--you don't want to burn any bridges! And remember, once you become an established babysitter, you will be able to secure regular babysitting jobs with no problem.