{"id":2247,"date":"2019-03-26T16:30:05","date_gmt":"2019-03-26T08:30:05","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.helperchoice.com\/?p=2247"},"modified":"2026-01-15T01:36:11","modified_gmt":"2026-01-14T17:36:11","slug":"how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/","title":{"rendered":"Domestic Helper Management Essentials and Problem-Solving"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/happy-domestic-worker.png\" alt=\"Happy domestic worker\" class=\"wp-image-14589\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Treating your domestic helper fairly can bring you a lot of benefits such as saving you time and money for finding a replacement, and having a helper who will work more efficiently and even go an extra mile in taking care of your family in return. However, managing a domestic helper can be tricky as she is your employee but also a part of the family. No worries, we will walk you through the stages of a domestic helper&#8217;s employment period and point out where you can pay attention to.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Before_your_domestic_helpers_arrival\" >Before your domestic helper\u2019s arrival<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Prepare_the_helper_room\" >Prepare the helper room<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#The_live-in_rule\" >The live-in rule<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#What_other_employers_do\" >What other employers do<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Can_you_install_a_camera_at_home_to_monitor_your_domestic_helpers_work\" >Can you install a camera at home to monitor your domestic helper\u2019s work?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Your_domestic_helpers_first_week\" >Your domestic helper\u2019s first week<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Welcome_the_helper_to_her_new_job\" >Welcome the helper to her new job<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#House_rules_and_duties\" >House rules and duties<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Work_safety\" >Work safety<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Manage_your_domestic_helpers_performance\" >Manage your domestic helper\u2019s performance<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Help_your_domestic_helper_organize_her_working_day\" >Help your domestic helper organize her working day<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#When_your_helper_does_not_reach_your_expectation\" >When your helper does not reach your expectation<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Overcome_the_language_barrier\" >Overcome the language barrier<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Overcome_the_cultural_difference\" >Overcome the cultural difference<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Evaluate_and_develop_your_domestic_helpers_skills\" >Evaluate and develop your domestic helper\u2019s skills<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Prepare_the_helper_to_take_care_of_your_baby\" >Prepare the helper to take care of your baby<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Prepare_the_helper_for_elderly_care_and_special_needs\" >Prepare the helper for elderly care and special needs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Help_your_domestic_helper_organize_the_cleaning_tasks\" >Help your domestic helper organize the cleaning tasks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Does_your_domestic_helper_cook_healthy_food\" >Does your domestic helper cook healthy food?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Develop_your_domestic_helpers_skills_by_training\" >Develop your domestic helper\u2019s skills by training<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Why_is_training_for_domestic_helpers_important\" >Why is training for domestic helpers important?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Send_her_to_cooking_classes_to_learn_new_recipes\" >Send her to cooking classes to learn new recipes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Why_you_should_send_your_domestic_helper_to_a_first_aid_course\" >Why you should send your domestic helper to a first aid course<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Manage_the_employment_relationship\" >Manage the employment relationship<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Mutual_respect_and_privacy\" >Mutual respect and privacy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Privacy_at_home\" >Privacy at home<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Online_privacy\" >Online privacy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#What_about_eating_together_with_the_domestic_helper\" >What about eating together with the domestic helper?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Domestic_helpers_role_with_the_kids\" >Domestic helper\u2019s role with the kids<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Acknowledging_your_domestic_helpers_work\" >Acknowledging your domestic helper\u2019s work<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Incentives_for_good_work\" >Incentives for good work<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Special_arrangement_during_employment\" >Special arrangement during employment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#When_you_are_on_leave\" >When you are on leave<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#When_your_domestic_helper_is_on_leave\" >When your domestic helper is on leave<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#If_your_helper_is_on_sick_leave\" >If your helper is on sick leave<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#The_alternatives_to_handle_the_household\" >The alternatives to handle the household<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-handle-domestic-helper-problems\/#Building_a_Strong_Start_Together\" >Building a Strong Start Together<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Before_your_domestic_helpers_arrival\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before your domestic helper\u2019s arrival<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prepare_the_helper_room\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare the helper room<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The living arrangement is one of the main questions any employer will raise. You must know that in Hong Kong and Singapore, domestic helpers <\/span><b>must live with their employers by law. <\/b><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_live-in_rule\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The live-in rule<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A legal aspect that can be tricky especially in Hong Kong, as <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">it is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Going compact and creative when it comes to arranging space are absolute musts. For many Hong Kongers, coping with limited space has become the new normal. Things get a tad more complicated though for those among us who are employing a live-in foreign domestic helper \u2013 as <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">live-outs are illegal<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 and who need to make extra living arrangements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_other_employers_do\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What other employers do<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/helperchoice-domestic-workers-salary-hong-kong\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">living arrangements survey<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from 2018 in Hong Kong revealed that 70% of the job offers on our platform include a private room, 16% shared with a kid, and 10% shared with another helper. In Hong Kong,<\/span><b> domestic helpers must not sleep in the living room<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> because this is lack of privacy. As an employer, you are required to provide your helper with a proper bedroom or living quarters. Many apartments come with a \u201chelper room\u201d or \u201cmaid room\u201d which are smaller, sometimes with no window nor air-conditioner. To <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/preparing-helpers-room\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prepare your domestic helper room<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you can install a sofa bed or buy a custom made bed. Also, ensure proper ventilation in her room by offering at least a fan for the hot summer months.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_install_a_camera_at_home_to_monitor_your_domestic_helpers_work\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can you install a camera at home to monitor your domestic helper\u2019s work?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many employers want to make sure their homes and loved ones are safe while they are away, therefore installing a video camera to monitor what is happening at home. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is legally permitted for an employer to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/install-cctv-monitor-helper-singapore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">install video cameras in their household<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as long as it does not threaten the domestic worker\u2019s personal privacy. However, the law clearly states that <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clic.org.hk\/en\/topics\/personalDataPrivacy\/in_recruit_hr_and_work\/q18.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the use of video cameras should remain reasonable<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. There should be <\/span><b>no cameras in the area where the helper sleeps<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where she changes her clothes as well as in the bathroom. To be on the safe side, it is recommended to keep helpers informed about the installation of cameras in the household as not doing so can constitute a violation of their privacy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_domestic_helpers_first_week\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your domestic helper\u2019s first week<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Welcome_the_helper_to_her_new_job\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Welcome the helper to her new job<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starting a new position is a stressful situation for any employee, and also for employers in this case as domestic workers are required to live in with you. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/prepare-for-your-new-helper\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">first few days of your domestic helper<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will be crucial as you will have to <\/span><b>show and explain to her clearly what you expect<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and she will have to take her marks. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"House_rules_and_duties\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">House rules and duties<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leave your domestic helper some time to settle and make sure to introduce the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/house-rules-for-domestic-helpers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">house rules<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to her. The best thing to do is to take a day off on her arrival and prepare a guidebook with the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">job du<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">t<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ies<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/3-tips-help-domestic-helper-organise-cleaning-work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">daily schedule<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and house rules. That way you will be able to show the new helper your home, as well as the neighborhood and take her to the wet market. Also, it is important to talk about online privacy and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/smartphones-and-domestic-helpers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mobile phone usage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with her. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Work_safety\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Work safety<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Domestic helpers may not realize the potential dangers of working at a high-rise building &#8211; especially when it comes to window cleaning and hanging laundry. As an employer, you have the responsibility to mind your domestic helper to follow the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guidelines of cleaning the outside of any window<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. We suggest you keep an eye on the helper when she performs the task to avoid any accidents. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Manage_your_domestic_helpers_performance\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manage your domestic helper\u2019s performance <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Help_your_domestic_helper_organize_her_working_day\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Help your domestic helper organize her working day<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Domestic helpers with years of experience will be more likely to be autonomous when it comes to organizing their daily tasks. If your helper is less experienced, you will have to help her manage her work and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/assign-helpers-tasks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">assign her tasks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. While some employers prefer micro-management by either planning down to the last minute or down to daily chores, others choose to give them a global tasks schedule and carte blanche.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_your_helper_does_not_reach_your_expectation\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When your helper does not reach your expectation<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every employer-domestic helper relationship will, at some point, encounter some issues because she <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/domestic-helper-initiative\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">does not take initiatives<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or due to other factors such as the cultural difference. Fortunately, you can <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/5-common-helper-problems-and-solutions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">anticipate those common helper problems<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and always find a solution to overcome them. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overcome_the_language_barrier\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overcome the language barrier<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One obstacle to a good employer-employee relationship is definitely the language barrier. You might want your domestic helper to improve her English, her Cantonese or her Mandarin to simplify the communication, especially if she is working with elderlies. As an employer, you can greatly help your helper <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-help-my-domestic-helper-improve-her-language-skills\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improve her language skills<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by supporting her throughout the whole process or even signing her to language classes. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overcome_the_cultural_difference\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overcome the cultural difference<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you are originally from a developed country, chances are that you have been raised in a totally different way than your domestic helper. Different culture sometimes will lead to a lack of understanding between you and your domestic helper. Fortunately, there are many ways you can <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/domestic-helper-cultural-differences\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">deal with cultural differences<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Evaluate_and_develop_your_domestic_helpers_skills\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Evaluate and develop your domestic helper\u2019s skills<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prepare_the_helper_to_take_care_of_your_baby\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare the helper to take care of your baby<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expecting a baby<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is one of the most common reasons why families hire a domestic helper for the first time. When choosing a helper, you will most certainly look at her past experiences with children and references. However, all mummies and daddies struggle to leave their child with a stranger. Start by showing her how you want things done and how you do them, little by little she will gain more independence on taking care of your little ones. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By paying attention to your children\u2019s behavior, did it change or not since the helper joined your family? In which way? You will be able to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/domestic-helper-taking-good-care-children\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">evaluate if the helper is taking good care of your children<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prepare_the_helper_for_elderly_care_and_special_needs\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare the helper for e<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lderly care and special needs<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another very common reason for hiring a domestic helper is if you need a caregiver to look after an elderly or someone with special needs. To make sure your domestic helper is doing it right, give her a few <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/tips-domestic-helper-elderly-caregiving-hiring\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">caregiving tips<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or enrol her in caregiving classes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Help_your_domestic_helper_organize_the_cleaning_tasks\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Help your domestic helper organize the cleaning tasks<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We all have different standards when it comes to cleaning, so do domestic workers. Make sure you show her your expectations, how you like things to be done and at which frequency. Helping the helper <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">organize her cleaning tasks<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will also permit avoiding any conflicts on this topic. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_your_domestic_helper_cook_healthy_food\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Does your domestic helper cook healthy food?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cooking is one of the main domestic helpers\u2019 duties, depending on your origins you will generally more likely want your helper to cook Western or Eastern dishes. Some families also have special diets and therefore should explain to the domestic helper <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/helper-healthy-cooking-singapore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how to cook a healthy meal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with these restrictions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Develop_your_domestic_helpers_skills_by_training\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Develop your domestic helper\u2019s skills by training<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_training_for_domestic_helpers_important\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why is training for domestic helpers important? <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Domestic helpers are often hired for a certain position because they have experience, for example, she has taken care of babies before, or she is a great cook. But you might want your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">domestic helper to take further training<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in order to get more skills as well as certifications, great recognition for her and a good way for you to make sure that her work will meet your expectations. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training dedicated to domestic helpers<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is very common in Hong Kong and Singapore, whatever the topic. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Send_her_to_cooking_classes_to_learn_new_recipes\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Send her to cooking classes to learn new recipes<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not all domestic workers are chefs, if you would like your domestic helper to improve her cooking skills, do not hesitate to enrol her in cooking programs in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/10-helper-cooking-classes-hong-kong\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hong Kong<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/en-sg\/15-helper-cooking-classes-in-singapore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Singapore<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_you_should_send_your_domestic_helper_to_a_first_aid_course\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why you should send your domestic helper to a first aid course<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your domestic helper\u2019s job is focused on taking care of your children or elderly? In this case, we recommend you to enrol her in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/helper-first-aid-course\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">first aid training<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this will help you be less stressed in case a medical emergency situation comes up, you know she will be able to take action immediately, avoiding the worst. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Manage_the_employment_relationship\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manage the employment relationship<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mutual_respect_and_privacy\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mutual respect and privacy<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The employer-employee relationship can be hard to cope with at the beginning, especially if you have never hired a domestic helper before. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Privacy_at_home\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Privacy at home<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The usually small size of the apartments added to the live-in rule can be perceived as an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/domestic-helper-privacy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">invasion of your privacy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Set rules when it comes to working hours to make sure that you have enough private time with your family and that your domestic helper has enough time to rest. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Online_privacy\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Online privacy<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You might have noticed how often your domestic helper uses social media, especially Facebook. It is, of course, a great way for her to stay in touch with her family back home, but sometimes she might overshare her life working abroad, including pictures of your family, and not be aware of her profile\u2019s private setting. Some employers might realise that their kids birthday parties have been shared on Facebook and liked by dozens of people they don\u2019t know. To avoid this situation, make sure you discuss what you agree or do not agree to share on her social media, and make sure she understands <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/internet-privacy-rules-domestic-helper\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">everything about online privacy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_about_eating_together_with_the_domestic_helper\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What about eating together with the domestic helper? <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the main questions employers will raise when hiring a helper is: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/invite-helper-have-meal-together\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">should she dine with the family or not?<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> There is no defined answer to this but keep in mind that this should not be a unilateral decision made by you. Some employers think that they should treat the domestic helper as part of the family, therefore eating with her every day. But it is okay for you to prefer to have a more private dinner with your family. In fact, some domestic helpers would rather have their dinners alone so that they can enjoy personal time after a long day of work. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Domestic_helpers_role_with_the_kids\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Domestic helper\u2019s role with the kids<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Employing a domestic helper to take care of your children can be really frustrating as she will be the one spending the most time with the kids that you might feel left on the side or your kids prefer the helper than you. Don\u2019t worry, many parents experience this situation, just keep in mind that the bond between your child and your domestic helper is absolutely normal, you should discuss with her early in this relation to make sure she <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/help-child-prefers-helper\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sets boundaries with the kids<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> while you are away. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Acknowledging_your_domestic_helpers_work\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acknowledging your domestic helper\u2019s work<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are special times in the year when you might want to reward your domestic helper for her hard work and her dedication to your family\u2019s well being, such as her birthday, Christmas or Chinese New Year. <\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Incentives_for_good_work\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Incentives for good work<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/helper-bonus\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">give your helper a bonus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or consider raising her salary if she performs well. Whatever the situation, discuss this with her and let her know what she should expect in terms of rewarding her work. The general practice is towards giving the helper a bonus or some gifts rather than increasing the salary regularly. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Special_arrangement_during_employment\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Special arrangement during employment<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_you_are_on_leave\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you are on leave<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on your family\u2019s situation, when preparing your holidays you might wonder <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/ready-summer-vacation-helper\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">what your domestic helper will do during your vacation abroad<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. There are different possibilities: you could let her stay at your home, take her on holidays with you or let her take her <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">annual leave<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The most important part of this decision is to communicate with her and understands what she would like as well.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_your_domestic_helper_is_on_leave\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When your domestic helper is on leave<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"If_your_helper_is_on_sick_leave\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your helper is on sick leave<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being sick happens to the best of us. Unfortunately, during the employment period, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/cope-helper-sick\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">your domestic helper will likely be sick<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at some point. Even if it is a minor infection she will certainly ask for some time off or even sick leaves. And no matter how unexpected it is or how complicated the situation might be for you, it is crucial \u2013 and your responsibility as an employer \u2013 to assist your domestic worker to get good medical care and not let her work while she is sick.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_alternatives_to_handle_the_household\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The alternatives to handle the household<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your domestic helper entitled to a certain amount of holidays according to the local law. As she plays a crucial role in your household stability, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/5-tips-to-manage-your-house-when-your-helper-is-on-leave\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">manage the household without your helper<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> might look like a challenge, but don\u2019t worry, there are alternatives such as <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">part-time local domestic help<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or nanny services existing! Remember that you cannot hire a domestic helper work visa or permit holder to work part-time for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"4527\" data-end=\"4562\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Building_a_Strong_Start_Together\"><\/span>Building a Strong Start Together<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4564\" data-end=\"4772\">Welcoming a new domestic helper is about more than routines and rules \u2014 it\u2019s about trust, understanding, and communication. When helpers feel supported and employers feel heard, daily life runs more smoothly.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4774\" data-end=\"5033\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/domestic-helpers\/hong-kong\">HelperChoice,<\/a> we believe that thoughtful onboarding and respectful management lay the foundation for strong, long-term employer-helper relationships. With patience and openness, both sides can grow into a partnership built on confidence and mutual respect.<\/p>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Treating your domestic helper fairly can bring you a lot of benefits such as saving you time and money for finding a replacement, and having a helper who will work more efficiently and even go an extra mile in taking care of your family in return. However, managing a domestic helper can be tricky as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":5369,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"slim_seo":{"description":"From arrival to daily management, this guide explains how to manage domestic helpers, handle challenges, and support long-term cooperation.","title":"Domestic Helper Management Essentials and Problem-Solving - HelperChoice Blog"},"footnotes":""},"categories":[383],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2247","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-manage-helper"],"blocksy_meta":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/domestic-helper-initiative-motivation.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2247","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2247"}],"version-history":[{"count":28,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2247\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14591,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2247\/revisions\/14591"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5369"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2247"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2247"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2247"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}