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Let relatives, neighbors, church members, even teachers know you’re open for business. Next, throw together a brief resume with your background. Since you don’t have a mile-long list of past jobs, focus on any experience that prepares you for babysitting (“As the older sister of triplets, I can handle a small load of little ones”), accomplishments that showcase responsibility (“I headed up the fifth-grade can drive”) and any interests you have that might make you seem like someone the kids would have fun with (“I’m an expert at making friendship bracelets”). Finally, list three trustworthy references to back you up.

Get the deets

So you’ve put yourself out there and got the call. Congrats! But before you agree to anything, know what you’re getting into. Have a chat with the fam to get the basics—how many kids, their ages, when they need you.

Let’s talk $$$

Oh, and just how much moolah should you charge? Babysitting is a business, so be reasonable—without selling yourself short. On average, GL readers charge from $5 to $7 an hour. But that rate can vary depending on how many kids and what is expected of you. In fact, 49 percent of GL girlies don’t charge the same for every family and every job. Many even add an extra buck or two an hour for each additional kid or extra household chores. Ask around to get a consensus for what the going rate is, then take it from there.

by L’Oreal Thompson and Patricia McNamara | 2/1/2016