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About Sittercity
Suitable, safe, and affordable childcare can be hard to come by. If you’re a parent of young children, you know that you need some relief once in a while.
Whether you want to add more date nights to your schedule, start taking a weekly yoga class in the evening, or need some after-school help, well, there’s an app for that.
Sittercity is an American company connecting parents with babysitters and nannies. As the company expanded, people who are looking for elderly or pet care can also post their job and find the appropriate people.
Furthermore, you can find a caregiver your kids mesh with through the wide array of diverse profiles. Sittercity’s vibrant Instagram account has a modest 3.7k followers while their Facebook boasts a significant 134k likes.
You can also catch this company featured in Good Morning America, The New York Times, and Forbes. They also have a podcast with the same name where they talk about all things childcare-related.
This Sittercity review will take an in-depth look at how the brand’s apps work, customer reviews and ratings, and refund policy. We’ll also check out Sittercity’s history, promotions and discounts, and membership benefits! You won’t want to miss it.
Overview of Sittercity
Gone are the days of posting ads and handing out paper fliers looking for a babysitter to take care of your child. Thankfully, with the evolution of technology and the internet, you no longer have to resort to such desperate measures.
Sittercity was established in 2001 by a college student and babysitter herself, Genevieve Thiers. One day Genevieve saw a pregnant woman posting fliers around campus in search of a caregiver. She thought there must be an easier and more efficient way—and she was right!
She designed a website where babysitters and nannies could post their profiles and parents could easily find a local caregiver. At first, the app was for people in Boston only but as it gained rapid popularity, Sittercity expanded its service to more cities.
By 2002, the brand’s headquarters moved to Chicago, Illinois to be more centrally located. Two years later, Sittercity was offering its services nationwide. Today, their website has over 5 million caregivers.
Now, this Sittercity review will give you some of the brand’s key highlights before moving on to what the app offers:
Highlights
- Find local babysitters and nannies
- Detailed profiles
- Easy-to-use interface
- Identity verification
- A secure and safe messaging system
- Request sitters’ references and background checks
- Request and schedule interviews directly through the app
- Sitters have ratings and reviews from other parents
- Save 65% with value plans
- Free resources for parents and sitters
- BBB accredited
Are you ready to find the perfect match for your family? Stick with this Sittercity review as we dive into the brand’s different apps and discover their membership perks.
Sittercity App Review
Sittercity offers two different apps, one for Apple devices and the other for Android. Whether you’re a sitter or a parent, you can download this app for free. Note, you must be over 18 to use this platform.
The brand highlights the apps are for the use of finding or posting childcare jobs. If you’re looking for pet or elderly care, then you will have to visit the brand’s website.
First, we’ll take a look at the main features for families using the app:
- You can post a babysitting, nanny, or tutoring jobs for free
- Choose the level of experience and skills you are looking for in a caregiver
- View detailed profiles of local caregivers including their qualifications and ratings
- You’ll receive notifications from caregivers who are interested in the posted position
- Schedule and book interviews through the app with suitable candidates
This Sittercity review likes how you can be choosy with what you’re looking for in a caregiver. At the end of the day, when searching for childcare you want to make sure you find someone who is going to be a good fit for your family. With an app like Sittercity, you can book interviews solely with people who you think are suitable for the job.
Up next, we’ll check out the perks for sitters and nannies using the app:
- Showcase your experience, skills, and personality through your online profile
- Receive notifications when new jobs are posted in your area
- Message families and apply to jobs directly through the app
- Filter your settings to find jobs that fit what you’re looking for (part-time, full-time, occasional, etc.)
- Families will request interviews and you can choose to meet them if you see fit
The Sittercity app is mutually beneficial for both parents and caregivers. Not only do parents have some control over who they choose to interview but caregivers can also filter their searches to apply for jobs that fit with their schedules and needs—all at no extra cost.
Overall, the Sittercity app can be a useful tool for connecting parents with caregivers. Down below, this Sittercity review will explore some of the additional benefits of having a premium account membership.
Sittercity Membership Review
As this Sittercity review mentioned above, downloading the brand’s app is free. A parent or caregiver can utilize the basic membership at no cost. However, parents only have limited access to caregivers in their area.
With a basic membership you cannot see the sitters’ full profiles, and can only respond to those who’ve applied to your job posting which can make your search a bit more time-consuming and challenging.
However, Sittercity offers a premium membership that grants you access to advanced features. You’ll be able to see all caregiver profiles, run background checks, and contact sitters directly without them having to apply to your job first. For this service, parents will need to pay an automatic monthly fee.
Payment plans include:
- Annual: $14 per month
- Quarterly: $28 per month
- Monthly: $42 per month
This Sittercity review recommends using the basic membership when you first begin your search before overcommitting. Gain a feel of the app and how it works, and then if you like it you can upgrade your account to get the additional features.
How Does Sittercity Work?
So, are you ready to begin your search for a caregiver? Or, are you looking for your next job? Either way, this Sittercity review will guide you through the steps of making the most of your account.
Let’s start with how Sittercity works for parents looking for childcare. We know that you want to find the best match for your family in the fastest time possible. You’ll be happy to hear you can get started in three easy steps:
- Post your job: the first step is to brainstorm what you’re looking for in a caregiver such as their amount of experience, skills, and availability. Then, write a job description and post your job on the site.
- Read responses: caregivers who are interested in your job will reach out to you. Take some time to go through the responses. To reply to messages you will need a premium membership. If you have a premium membership you’ll also be able to reach out to caregivers first.
- Schedule an interview: once you’ve gone through profiles and received responses, you can start setting up interviews to find the right match.
For caregivers, the process of finding a job is super simple. With a little time and dedication, you can be working in no time. Here are the three steps:
- Make a profile: once you make a Sittercity account you can choose what kind of job you’re looking for—childcare, nanny, pet care, elderly care, companion, or housecleaner.
- Start applying to jobs: browse through a wide selection of job postings in your area. Apply to the jobs that suit your schedule and needs.
- Start interviewing: schedule interviews with families who you think you could be a great match with.
Sittercity vs Care
Sittercity and Care.com are both websites that connect independent families and caregivers. How do they compare? We’ll take a look at both the service’s reputation, features, cost, and ease of use.
Sittercity is a pioneer in the industry, driven by the passion of Genevieve to make things easier for parents all-around. With tons of caregivers registered on the brand’s site, families can breathe easier, knowing that all of the caregivers go through extensive background checks. Plus, families can make use of the brand’s screening tools. And, they have a military discount!
As for Care.com, they’re available in over 20 countries across the globe, with multiple languages available. In terms of what families have access to, they can see all caregiver profiles and send them a message for free. And if you’ve got a special needs child? Not a problem, they have special caregivers who are trained for any needs your child may have.
As you can see, both Sittercity and Care.com offer different features depending on your membership. Both sites are trustworthy and reliable, helping families and caregivers connect.
If you’re living in the US and want to make sure your sitter or caregiver has undergone background checks then this Sittercity review recommends using the brand we’re featuring. However, if you don’t live in the US and are looking for niche caregivers, then you’ll want to opt for Care.com.
All in all, both companies have great benefits to both but it comes down to your personal preferences, dealbreakers, and what works for you as a caregiver or family in need of one.
Who Is Sittercity For?
Sittercity is for American families who are looking for a sitter and any caregivers looking for a job. If you’re a busy parent or guardian who wants to find part-time or full-time child care, then you’re the target demographic for Sittercity.
On the flip side, if you live in the US, are over the age of 18, and looking to care for families, pets, or the elderly, then Sittercity will help make your search easier. You’ll be able to network with families and offer services that fit your schedule.
Sittercity Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
Your kids are the most valuable people in your life. It makes total sense why you’d want to make sure they get the safest, and most suitable, care. That’s why this Sittercity review searched the internet to find out what users of the brand’s service have to say before you make any decisions.
Generally, many families and caregivers have luck using Sittercity. Plenty of Sittercity reviews report finding what they’re looking for, easy-to-use interface, and feeling safe—all super important when connecting with strangers online.
First, this Sittercity review scoped out reviews on Sitejabber from both families and caregivers. Out of 104 reviews, one 5-star reviewer speaks highly of the brand’s service and safety features. They wrote:
“I think Sittercity is a great service overall. I was a bit hesitant about letting a stranger in my house to watch my most precious aspects of my life! I felt comforted when I saw so many sitters in my area and the safety “badges” that get assigned to each sitter (for things like CPR and first aid training). […]”
A caregiver reviewer from Sitejabber remarked:
“I have been with Sittercity for 7 yrs. I have never had any problems […] I have excellent reviews from parents. I love that I can provide childcare to families and get to know the children I take care of. The company’s specialist’s always help me and are courteous and professional. […] I will remain a Nanny/Babysitter on Sittercity!”
Another 5-star reviewer out of 4 reviews on Park Slope Parents, commented: “I used Sittercity to find occasional sitters, for nights and some daytime hours. I found it really helpful. It’s good because you can be very clear in posting an ad about your needs and rates and then filter out responses if someone doesn’t seem to be a good fit. It is user-friendly.”
Finally, out of a whopping 40.2k ratings and 4.7/5 stars on the Sittercity Apple app, one happy customer stated: “I signed up today and I’ve already gotten 2 people asking for a meeting!! Very fast results.”
As noted earlier in this section of the Sittercity review, we stumbled upon a few complaints on our search. Many negative reviews do not like the automatic monthly renewal of the premium membership. Overall, many members of Sittercity say the service is worth the money due to the efficiency and convenience of the site.
Is Sittercity Safe?
Yes, Sittercity is completely safe to use. The brand does extensive background checks on all caregivers and removes their profiles if they find any suspicious behavior. Even if a caregiver has a misdemeanor offense, Sittercity will promptly deactivate their account.
Is Sittercity Worth It?
Whether you are searching for a caregiver or a job, Sittercity is worth checking out. The brand offers a decent platform where families and caregivers can find their ideal match.
The way Sittercity is set up is almost like a freelance website where caregivers can post their skills and experience in their profiles and where families can seek eligible carers.
Even if you merely need a babysitter for a random night off, you’ll have a large pool of options to choose from. That being said, caregivers report finding a job fairly easy as well.
Chances are, if you’re serious about your search, then you’ll have to pay the cost and upgrade your membership to a premium one. Fortunately, the brand’s prices are reasonable and once you find a nanny you can cancel the monthly membership so you won’t be charged continually.
Sittercity Promotions & Discounts
At the time of this Sittercity Review, you can save up to 65% on select value plans!
Where to Buy Sittercity
Making an account with Sittercity is completely free. You can upgrade your Sittercity membership directly through the brand’s site or Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your phone.
FAQ
Who owns Sittercity?
Sittercity is currently owned by Bright Horizons with Stephen Kramer as the CEO.
Can I cancel Sittercity anytime?
Yes, you can cancel the automatic renewal at any point. Depending on whether you have the app or desktop version, the procedures will vary.
If your account was created on a desktop:
- Log into your account and go to your account settings
- Scroll to the bottom of the page and click Manage your Subscription
- Click Downgrade to Basic and confirm your request
If your account was created through an iOS app:
- Open your settings, click your name, and go to Subscriptions
- Choose the subscription you want to cancel
- Press Cancel Subscription
What is Sittercity’s Privacy Policy?
This Sittercity review noticed the brand has an extensive privacy policy, which we’ll summarize. Sittercity collects information that you provide to them such as basic information, location, photographs, videos, plus credit card and banking information.
They also collect information automatically including login information, device information, location information, and tracking technologies amongst others. Finally, the brand collects information from other sources such as other users, credit bureaus, identity verification services, etc.
In terms of security, the brand outlines they do their best to protect your information but nothing is 100% or completely secure.
What is Sittercity’s Refund Policy?
You can cancel your premium membership at any time. Sittercity will send you a confirmation through email and your account will automatically downgrade at the end of the billing cycle.
Unfortunately, premium membership subscriptions are non-refundable. Once the money has automatically been withdrawn from your account, it cannot be returned.
How to Contact Sittercity
So, did you find everything you were looking for from this Sittercity review? If you have additional inquiries about the brand we recommend contacting them directly. You can get in touch with them via:
- Support widget on the site
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 888-748-2489
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