How to be successful when childminding by being professional
There are a number of key areas to look at when determining whether or not a childminding business will be successful and although this is not the only factor, being professional is definitely one to be found at the top of the list.
Once you have established from market research that setting up a childminding business in your area is a viable proposition, you then need to ensure that you are professional.
This helps childminders develop an excellent reputation, which will help their business flourish through recommendations.
While the following checklist breaks down what it means to be professional and may contain points that appear common sense, they are still important points to reiterate.
Be ready and prepared
It may be 7 o’clock in the morning, but opening the door in your dressing gown is not advised. Childminders need to be fully dressed, with activities ready to occupy the first child of the day as soon as they arrive.
Mind your language and behaviour
Bad language at any time is not acceptable, especially in front of minded children. Children can copy bad language and bad behaviors easily and it is important that inappropriate language and bad behavior is always challenged or disapproved.
Answering the phone
Always answer your calls in a professional manner, as though you were talking to a professional body such as Ofsted. When potential customers cannot see you, your voice and telephone manner are the only tools you have to attract them to your services. It may be a good idea to have a second phone dedicated to business calls only. If you use a landline for your business, ensure other family members also answer the phone professionally too.
Record a professional message on your Answer Phone
It is not always possible to answer your phone when you get a call. So record a professional message telling parents your business name, and asking them to leave a message so that you can call them back.
Maintain confidentiality
Your reputation good or bad will spread ahead of you. If you partake in gossiping, any sensitive information about children, families or other childminders will spread as well as your unprofessionalism, which could come back to damage your own business.
Set an example to children and others
Being friendly and polite at all times not only teaches the children in your care how to behave, but also advertises your assets as a childminder. When taking children to the playground, walking to school, attending toddler groups or talking to parents and other childminders, set an example. This could attract others to you and potentially lead to more work.
Be organized
Always plan activities in advance, especially if you are going on an outing. There are potential risks associated with activities involving children and these can be greatly reduced if the necessary precautions and preparations have been made. Don’t forget the essentials such as: nappy changing supplies, money, phone, parents’ contact details, first aid kit, suitable clothing, enough petrol and breakdown cover for the car if you are using one, change for parking etc.
Keeping your knowledge updated
As well as training, keep up to date with the news and changes in the profession, so that you can make the necessary changes if required.
Also keep your childcare information updated with regular training to ensure the children in your care receive the best possible support.
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