{"id":367,"date":"2018-06-19T15:44:17","date_gmt":"2018-06-19T15:44:17","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/blog\/?p=367"},"modified":"2026-01-13T03:51:04","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T19:51:04","slug":"how-to-train-your-helper","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Tips On How to Upskill Your Domestic Helper"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading mceTemp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Improving_your_helpers_skills_is_key_to_a_smooth-running_household\"><\/span>Improving your helper&#8217;s skills is key to a smooth-running household<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>Employers sometimes overlook the importance of upskilling their domestic workers. Some say it\u2019s a waste of time, while others claim it\u2019s not necessary. But not upskilling your helper&nbsp;before she starts to work can actually cost you more than you realise. &nbsp;So where do you begin? Here are some tips on how to properly train helpers.<\/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 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-6' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-6'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-6' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-6'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-6' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-6'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-6' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Improving_your_helpers_skills_is_key_to_a_smooth-running_household\" >Improving your helper&#8217;s skills is key to a smooth-running household<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_1_Start_With_a_Warm_Welcome\" >Step 1: Start With a Warm Welcome<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_2_Define_Responsibilities_Clearly\" >Step 2: Define Responsibilities Clearly<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_3_Demonstrate_Rather_Than_Just_Explain\" >Step 3: Demonstrate Rather Than Just Explain<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_4_Build_Simple_Routines_and_Checklists\" >Step 4: Build Simple Routines and Checklists<\/a><\/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-train-your-helper\/#Step_5_Encourage_Questions_and_Two-Way_Feedback\" >Step 5: Encourage Questions and Two-Way Feedback<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_6_Use_Visual_Aids_When_Helpful\" >Step 6: Use Visual Aids When Helpful<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_7_Be_Consistent_With_Expectations\" >Step 7: Be Consistent With Expectations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_8_Share_Household_Values_and_Priorities\" >Step 8: Share Household Values and Priorities<\/a><\/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-train-your-helper\/#Step_9_Celebrate_Progress_and_Effort\" >Step 9: Celebrate Progress and Effort<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Step_10_Support_Long-Term_Learning\" >Step 10: Support Long-Term Learning<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/how-to-train-your-helper\/#Where_Good_Training_Begins\" >Where Good Training Begins<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Wash-hand-home-hygiene-kids-domestic-helpers-cleaning-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"washing hands with soap\" class=\"wp-image-5014\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Wash-hand-home-hygiene-kids-domestic-helpers-cleaning-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Wash-hand-home-hygiene-kids-domestic-helpers-cleaning-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Wash-hand-home-hygiene-kids-domestic-helpers-cleaning-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Wash-hand-home-hygiene-kids-domestic-helpers-cleaning-1200x800.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Start_With_a_Warm_Welcome\"><\/span><strong>Step 1: Start With a Warm Welcome<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The first day sets the tone. A friendly greeting and a calm introduction help your helper feel comfortable and respected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what to cover early:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A quick home tour<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Where essentials are (cleaning tools, laundry supplies, kitchenware)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How you like to be addressed and spoken to<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A broad overview of daily expectations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A relaxed, clear beginning builds trust and reduces early anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Define_Responsibilities_Clearly\"><\/span><strong>Step 2: Define Responsibilities Clearly<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before diving into tasks, talk about what needs to be done and how you prefer them done. People work best when they know <em>exactly<\/em> what success looks like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can break duties into:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Daily routines<\/strong> (e.g., laundry, dishes, sweeping)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Weekly tasks<\/strong> (e.g., deep clean bathrooms, change bedsheets)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Special duties<\/strong> (e.g., baby care, elderly care, cooking specific meals)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of assuming your helper will guess your preferences, share them clearly. For example:<br>\u2714 \u201cPlease mop every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.\u201d<br>\u2714 \u201cI prefer towels folded this way\u2026\u201d<br>\u2714 \u201cThis is how I like my shirts ironed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Small details matter because they shape the results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Demonstrate_Rather_Than_Just_Explain\"><\/span><strong>Step 3: Demonstrate Rather Than Just Explain<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Verbal instructions are helpful, but showing <em>how<\/em> you want things done makes a bigger difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take time to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Walk through a task together<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Let your helper practice while you watch<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide feedback gently based on what you see<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Seeing the process in action often speeds up learning and avoids confusion later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Build_Simple_Routines_and_Checklists\"><\/span><strong>Step 4: Build Simple Routines and Checklists<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Checklists help both employers and helpers stay organised, especially in the first few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Example checklist for cleaning:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sweep floor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wipe kitchen counters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wash dishes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fold laundry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Empty trash<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Simple lists reduce guesswork and keep tasks consistent. You can update these lists together as routines settle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Encourage_Questions_and_Two-Way_Feedback\"><\/span><strong>Step 5: Encourage Questions and Two-Way Feedback<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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 \u2014 make it clear that questions are welcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cIf anything isn\u2019t clear, please ask me. I want us to understand each other.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, offer feedback respectfully and constructively. Focus on the <em>result you want<\/em>, not just what went wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_6_Use_Visual_Aids_When_Helpful\"><\/span><strong>Step 6: Use Visual Aids When Helpful<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pictures, labels, and simple notes go a long way \u2014 especially when language differences exist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ideas for visual support:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Label storage areas (e.g., \u201cclean towels,\u201d \u201crecycling\u201d)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use photos to show how a cupboard or drawer should look<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place short reminders near appliances (e.g., how to use the washing machine)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Visual cues help training stick and reduce the need for repeated explanations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_7_Be_Consistent_With_Expectations\"><\/span><strong>Step 7: Be Consistent With Expectations<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular check-ins help keep everyone aligned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_8_Share_Household_Values_and_Priorities\"><\/span><strong>Step 8: Share Household Values and Priorities<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Every home has its own rhythm and values. Sharing your bigger priorities \u2014 like cleanliness level, guest etiquette, or how to treat family members \u2014 helps helpers understand the \u201cwhy\u201d behind tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This deeper understanding often leads to better work quality than just following instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_9_Celebrate_Progress_and_Effort\"><\/span><strong>Step 9: Celebrate Progress and Effort<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>People learn and improve over time. Acknowledging progress \u2014 big and small \u2014 boosts morale and motivates helpers to keep learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simple phrases like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cYou did well on the laundry today.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cThank you for remembering the new routine.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cI appreciate how much effort you put in.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These make a real difference in your helper\u2019s confidence and attitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_10_Support_Long-Term_Learning\"><\/span><strong>Step 10: Support Long-Term Learning<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Training is ongoing. As your helper settles in, she may take on new responsibilities or grow in skill. Offering chances to learn \u2014 like teaching a recipe, showing a cleaning tip, or explaining a care routine \u2014 goes beyond tasks and supports personal growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A helper who learns and grows feels valued and becomes a stronger partner in your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"956\" height=\"602\" src=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/Checklist-for-domestic-helper-cleaning-schedule.png\" alt=\"Setting a schedule is a major part of ensuring that you get the best cleaning results\" class=\"wp-image-4974\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/Checklist-for-domestic-helper-cleaning-schedule.png 956w, https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/Checklist-for-domestic-helper-cleaning-schedule-300x189.png 300w, https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/Checklist-for-domestic-helper-cleaning-schedule-768x484.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 956px) 100vw, 956px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_Good_Training_Begins\"><\/span><strong>Where Good Training Begins<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mistakes are inevitable. But proper training can help you have a happy, well-functioning household. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/hong-kong\/helperchoice-academy\">HelperChoice Academy<\/a> training is designed to let domestic helpers benefit from continuous training and education at an affordable price. Find out more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/hong-kong\/helperchoice-academy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here<\/a> if you want to turn your helper into a super helper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Improving your helper&#8217;s skills is key to a smooth-running household Employers sometimes overlook the importance of upskilling their domestic workers. Some say it\u2019s a waste of time, while others claim it\u2019s not necessary. But not upskilling your helper&nbsp;before she starts to work can actually cost you more than you realise. &nbsp;So where do you begin? [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":4817,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"slim_seo":{"description":"Learn how to train your domestic helper effectively with practical steps, clear communication, and shared expectations that improve teamwork and daily routines.","title":"3 Tips On How to Upskill Your Domestic Helper - HelperChoice Blog"},"footnotes":""},"categories":[107],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-367","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-training-helper"],"blocksy_meta":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/cooking.png","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/367","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=367"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/367\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14531,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/367\/revisions\/14531"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4817"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=367"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=367"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.helperchoice.com\/c\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=367"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}