Hiring help for your household can be a tricky affair and one which has lasting implications on your home and family. This checklist is the ultimate guide detailing everything you need to know and consider while hiring a new domestics worker. Whether you are replacing your old helper or this is your first time, using this checklist can help you avoid mistakes.
Before You Start
Make sure the responsibilities, working hours, live-in/commuting status and other special considerations for the job are clear. Set a budget for salaries and additional gifts/holiday bonuses. Decide between independent recruitment and professional agency. It is always advisable to hire professional agencies who understand the needs of Indian families.
Finding Candidates
If you decide to go with agencies, brief them on the requirements and nature of your household and family. If you are hiring independently, always use professional networks and portals. Avoid word of mouth as much as possible.
The Interview
Prepare a list of standard questions for the candidate to assess her skills and suitability for the post. Try to prepare situational questions to judge her problem-solving skills. Temperament and attitude are as important as skills to be judged. For candidates applying for jobs that require specialist skills and responsibilities such as childcare, elderly care, etc., conduct a small practical test or interaction before finalising the candidate.
Background Checks
Verify PAN number, Aadhar card, and criminal records. Cross-check the address mentioned in the documents with the candidate's current address. Call the previous employers mentioned (independent recruitment only) and shortlist candidates with good testimonials. Testimonials should be taken in confidence; never take word of mouth from employers.
Before Joining
Prepare a contract stating the duties, powers, salary, working hours, leaves, notice period, and other terms and conditions of employment. Prepare the accommodation if applicable. Prepare a brief, a document detailing the responsibilities, house rules and duties of the domestic worker. Brief the family and other staff in the house about the new joiner.
The Joining Day
Take the candidate around the house and explain the work and responsibilities. Ensure she meets all the family members and other staff. Go through the brief document and answer all her questions. Finalise the responsibilities and day-to-day duties.
The First Month
Keep communicating and take stock of the duties performed. It is advisable to take day-to-day feedback in the first week and weekly feedback in the next few weeks. Hold formal discussions about the candidate's performance after two weeks and at the end of the first month. Praises and criticism should be given keeping in mind the candidate's performance.
In the Long Run
Discuss and decide the annual increment and holiday bonuses. Keep the candidate informed and take her opinion on various matters. Address any performance or discipline-related issues at the earliest. Commend good work and good conduct consistently.
Work With Solitaire for a Smooth Joining Process
At Solitaire Consultancy Services, we guide Mumbai families and households through such a checklist to ensure the best possible domestic helper is selected. By making an informed choice while recruiting, families can ensure smooth sailing ahead.
Get in touch with us for more recruitment assistance.
Before You Start
Make sure the responsibilities, working hours, live-in/commuting status and other special considerations for the job are clear. Set a budget for salaries and additional gifts/holiday bonuses. Decide between independent recruitment and professional agency. It is always advisable to hire professional agencies who understand the needs of Indian families.
Finding Candidates
If you decide to go with agencies, brief them on the requirements and nature of your household and family. If you are hiring independently, always use professional networks and portals. Avoid word of mouth as much as possible.
The Interview
Prepare a list of standard questions for the candidate to assess her skills and suitability for the post. Try to prepare situational questions to judge her problem-solving skills. Temperament and attitude are as important as skills to be judged. For candidates applying for jobs that require specialist skills and responsibilities such as childcare, elderly care, etc., conduct a small practical test or interaction before finalising the candidate.
Background Checks
Verify PAN number, Aadhar card, and criminal records. Cross-check the address mentioned in the documents with the candidate's current address. Call the previous employers mentioned (independent recruitment only) and shortlist candidates with good testimonials. Testimonials should be taken in confidence; never take word of mouth from employers.
Before Joining
Prepare a contract stating the duties, powers, salary, working hours, leaves, notice period, and other terms and conditions of employment. Prepare the accommodation if applicable. Prepare a brief, a document detailing the responsibilities, house rules and duties of the domestic worker. Brief the family and other staff in the house about the new joiner.
The Joining Day
Take the candidate around the house and explain the work and responsibilities. Ensure she meets all the family members and other staff. Go through the brief document and answer all her questions. Finalise the responsibilities and day-to-day duties.
The First Month
Keep communicating and take stock of the duties performed. It is advisable to take day-to-day feedback in the first week and weekly feedback in the next few weeks. Hold formal discussions about the candidate's performance after two weeks and at the end of the first month. Praises and criticism should be given keeping in mind the candidate's performance.
In the Long Run
Discuss and decide the annual increment and holiday bonuses. Keep the candidate informed and take her opinion on various matters. Address any performance or discipline-related issues at the earliest. Commend good work and good conduct consistently.
Work With Solitaire for a Smooth Joining Process
At Solitaire Consultancy Services, we guide Mumbai families and households through such a checklist to ensure the best possible domestic helper is selected. By making an informed choice while recruiting, families can ensure smooth sailing ahead.
Get in touch with us for more recruitment assistance.