Two Families Interested in My Infant Spot......

[my3ps]

So I thought having multiple people interview for my one infant opening would be easier so that I get to be a little picky (as I have a "problem" family now) and my stomach is just in knots of who to choose. Each family has positives and negatives. I think I have made my choice...but I am not totally sure yet.

How do you all notify the families, email or over the phone? I seriously have anxiety issues and hate calling pretty much anyone about anything....talking in person is even worse. I am leaning towards email, but I know to some this may be unprofessional. My anxiety level is through the roof right about now.

[EchoMom]

I would email. When I talk I end up babbling and not being firm enough and don't sound like someone with a Master's Degree, which I do. I do all of my important conversations through email, one so I have the written record, and two, so I can revise revise revise what I'm saying until it's right. I don't see anything wrong or unprofessional in emails, IMO.

I could see how that would be tough! When I have to fill my upcoming infant vacancy, I will get to be picky as well since infant care is in HIGH demand around here. But you're right, I don't know how I could not be a nervous wreck having to reject someone. Good luck!!! It's great that you get to choose!

[Truly Scrumptious]

I think e-mail would be fine.
Maybe in the future when interviewing parents, just explain at the end of the interview that once you've made your decision, that you will notify them by e-mail. That way it doesn't feel like an afterthought.

[Lilbutterflie]

I do think calling is the most professional thing to do; but I completely understand your anxiety about it. If it is really causing crazy anxiety, go ahead & tell them through email.

I recently had to turn down someone I interviewed because they were not a good fit for my program. I had complete knots in my stomach about calling them to tell them about it. Fortunately for me, they called me first to follow up; and that's when I told them their child wasn't a good fit for me. That was HARD. I can tell you that in our profession you will encounter a whole lot confrontatiion with parents and uncomfortable conversations; it comes with the job. But every time I do it I get less anxiety next time and I get better at it!

[cheerfuldom]

Being nervous about a tough conversation is normal but if you really have a lot of anxiety in even talking to people on a regular basis, perhaps you should talk to a professional about that. Daycare is hellish if you cant stand up for your decisions and have those tough conversations.

[Crazy8]

I think email is fine. How many times have you interviewed for a job with a company and gotten a phone call that you didn't get the job??? I think the answer for me would be NEVER. I think letting people know by email is fine, and in the future I would just let them know you are interviewing other families and will notify them by email when you make your decision. I always love when you see the realization on their face that YOU are the one making the decision, not them.