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With almost three decades of experience in the employment agency industry, Ms. K Jayaprema has accumulated a wealth of knowledge that includes the practical management of MDWs, MOM regulations and a lot more. Let her share valuable insights that can help you.
Preparing for the interview
Before you speak to the helpers, you need to be very clear on your household’s requirements.
You should make a list that prioritises these. This ensures that you’ll communicate all important details during the interview.
What to share with her
Tell her the detailed job scope and the standards you expect, like your preferences about hygiene and cleanliness levels.
Share with the helper what the general dos and don’ts and household rules are, and explain why these are important, be it for cultural, health-related or other reasons.
You should also describe your home and let her know how many rooms and toilets there are, as well as how big your home is, like how many storeys she should expect.
Other must-knows are the number of adults, children and pets in your household, and if any of them require special care.
What to ask her
It's also crucial to ask about the MDW's background, interests, hobbies, values and religious practices. This helps you better understand her and decide if she'll be a good fit for your household.
Question her on the specific skills required for the job, like whether she should know how to take care of young children or seniors. Find out how she acquired the skills. Did she acquire these from training, prior domestic work experience, or personal experience such as helping her own family? Decide if her skills match your needs.
It has to work both ways
Remember, your MDW should also feel comfortable working in your home. Clarity is key for her to make an informed decision on accepting your job offer. Don’t rush through this interview.
One final point. If you’re using an employment agency, ensure that they properly document the details shared and confirmed by both parties during the interview. This prevents any misunderstandings in future.
I hope that these tips can help you find the right helper for your household.