Improving your helper’s skills is key to a smooth-running household
Employers sometimes overlook the importance of upskilling their domestic workers. Some say it’s a waste of time, while others claim it’s not necessary. But not upskilling your helper before she starts to work can actually cost you more than you realise. So where do you begin? Here are some tips on how to properly train helpers.
Step 1: Start With a Warm Welcome
The first day sets the tone. A friendly greeting and a calm introduction help your helper feel comfortable and respected.
Here’s what to cover early:
- A quick home tour
- Where essentials are (cleaning tools, laundry supplies, kitchenware)
- How you like to be addressed and spoken to
- A broad overview of daily expectations
A relaxed, clear beginning builds trust and reduces early anxiety.
Step 2: Define Responsibilities Clearly
Before diving into tasks, talk about what needs to be done and how you prefer them done. People work best when they know exactly what success looks like.
You can break duties into:
- Daily routines (e.g., laundry, dishes, sweeping)
- Weekly tasks (e.g., deep clean bathrooms, change bedsheets)
- Special duties (e.g., baby care, elderly care, cooking specific meals)
Instead of assuming your helper will guess your preferences, share them clearly. For example:
✔ “Please mop every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.”
✔ “I prefer towels folded this way…”
✔ “This is how I like my shirts ironed.”
Small details matter because they shape the results.
Step 3: Demonstrate Rather Than Just Explain
Verbal instructions are helpful, but showing how you want things done makes a bigger difference.
Take time to:
- Walk through a task together
- Let your helper practice while you watch
- Provide feedback gently based on what you see
Seeing the process in action often speeds up learning and avoids confusion later.
Step 4: Build Simple Routines and Checklists
Checklists help both employers and helpers stay organised, especially in the first few weeks.
Example checklist for cleaning:
- Sweep floor
- Wipe kitchen counters
- Wash dishes
- Fold laundry
- Empty trash
Simple lists reduce guesswork and keep tasks consistent. You can update these lists together as routines settle.
Step 5: Encourage Questions and Two-Way Feedback
Healthy communication is a two-way street. Encourage your helper to ask questions without hesitation. Some helpers may feel shy or worried about asking for clarification — make it clear that questions are welcome.
You might say:
“If anything isn’t clear, please ask me. I want us to understand each other.”
At the same time, offer feedback respectfully and constructively. Focus on the result you want, not just what went wrong.
Step 6: Use Visual Aids When Helpful
Pictures, labels, and simple notes go a long way — especially when language differences exist.
Ideas for visual support:
- Label storage areas (e.g., “clean towels,” “recycling”)
- Use photos to show how a cupboard or drawer should look
- Place short reminders near appliances (e.g., how to use the washing machine)
Visual cues help training stick and reduce the need for repeated explanations.
Step 7: Be Consistent With Expectations
Consistency makes learning easier. If routines or preferences change, communicate those changes clearly and patiently. Switching instructions without discussion can confuse helpers and lead to frustration on both sides.
Regular check-ins help keep everyone aligned.
Step 8: Share Household Values and Priorities
Every home has its own rhythm and values. Sharing your bigger priorities — like cleanliness level, guest etiquette, or how to treat family members — helps helpers understand the “why” behind tasks.
This deeper understanding often leads to better work quality than just following instructions.
Step 9: Celebrate Progress and Effort
People learn and improve over time. Acknowledging progress — big and small — boosts morale and motivates helpers to keep learning.
Simple phrases like:
- “You did well on the laundry today.”
- “Thank you for remembering the new routine.”
- “I appreciate how much effort you put in.”
These make a real difference in your helper’s confidence and attitude.
Step 10: Support Long-Term Learning
Training is ongoing. As your helper settles in, she may take on new responsibilities or grow in skill. Offering chances to learn — like teaching a recipe, showing a cleaning tip, or explaining a care routine — goes beyond tasks and supports personal growth.
A helper who learns and grows feels valued and becomes a stronger partner in your home.
Where Good Training Begins
Mistakes are inevitable. But proper training can help you have a happy, well-functioning household. The HelperChoice Academy training is designed to let domestic helpers benefit from continuous training and education at an affordable price. Find out more here if you want to turn your helper into a super helper!