03/01/2018
Guide to Finding The Right Domestic Helper/Nanny
Hiring a domestic helper or nanny is not just about employing someone; it is choosing someone to help keep the sanctity of your home and/or raise your children. Finding someone off the street is so dangerous, clearly evidenced by the increase in reports of helpers who abuse children and/or connive with robbers. It is highly recommended that you engage a reputable placement agency to help you. Here are some quick pointers to help you plan to secure the perfect helper this 2018.
1. Know what you are looking for
i. Do I have a preferred age group that I would like to have working for me?
ii. Would I prefer a person of specific religious or cultural background?
iii. Do I mind if the person is loud and energetic or would I prefer a quieter person?
iv. Do I prefer a live in or a live out helper?
v. Is it essential that the candidate has training, or am I willing to train them myself?
Answering each of these questions honestly will help you have a balanced perspective on what you are looking for, when you know what you want, it is easier to say “no, this is not what I am looking for”.
2. Establish a clear job description, working hours and her remuneration package.
Be clear about her scope of duties, compensation and days-off. Most employers are quite vague on the above and expect the domestic helper to just float in uncertainty and humbly accept whatever the boss says. Key to note: When this is not clear, it is usually a basis for conflict and could result in your helper leaving prematurely.
When you are clear on points 1 & 2, pass on the information to your selected domestic placement agent.
3. Beware of too good to be true and cheap agencies
Dealing with unreliable and cheap placement agencies, will save you money but cause you headaches in the long term. Check the background of the agency. It is best to choose an agency based on the recommendation of a close family member or friend.
4. Interview more than one candidate
The more candidates you interview, the more you will know what you are looking for. Even if you are particularly impressed and tempted to engage the helper on the spot, don’t hesitate to insist on a second interview just to be sure.
5. Bring the children along to the interview
If you need a helper that will assist with child care, bring your children with you when you are interviewing the potential candidates. The ones that try to establish a functional connection with your children are the ones to put on top of your list.
6. Asking the right questions will reveal your potential helper’s character.
Ask your potential helper what her hobbies are and what she enjoys doing when she is not working. Her answers will give you a good clue as to her character and if it is compatible with you.
7. Investigate thoroughly so that you are not left disappointed
Always check your helper’s work history and references.
Find out her reasons for leaving her previous employment(s). NB While there are “helpers from hell” there are also “employers from hell” who have a track record of mistreating and abusing staff. We recommend you use discretion as you are checking on previous employers.
8. Ask candidates in the interview to rate themselves on chores that represent your choice.
Suggest some chores that your candidate(s) would be expected to do in your household and ask her to rank them. If you are looking for someone who can cook but she is better at ironing, then chances are the fit is not going to be great for either of you.
9. It is your role as employer to create an environment that works
Ensure that you honour the remuneration package and any scheduled increments you promised her. The trust, respect and efficient communication you are expecting from her, starts from you. Treat your domestic helper with respect and with acceptable labour and humane standards.
Johannesburg, Gauteng Midrand, Gauteng Centurion, Gauteng Irene Farm Pretoria, South Africa Sandton, Gauteng Bryanston Waterkloof Ridge Brooklyn Mall
