There is a world of difference between hiring a good agent and a bad one. A good agent is able to find solutions to your concerns while a bad one simply adds stress to your headaches.
While we all acknowledge the need to hire a good agent, the question remains: How do you know whether the agent you hire is competent?
A good way to do this is to assess whether the agent takes the initiative to cover the crucial matters or is least able to competently address key queries when you question them. Such includes issues relating to safety, legality and well-being of both the employers and the domestic workers they hire.
Do read on to find out more about the 5 key questions you should raise before choosing your agent
Question #1. Legal Matters
No one wants to fall afoul of the law. So, do ask your agent about things relating to the helper’s age, and the guidelines set out by MOM relating to the dos and don’t of hiring a helper. Your agent should be able to provide you with a comprehensive briefing of what you need to know to stay on the side of the law.
Question #2. Compatibility Matters
All employers want to find a reliable helper who will perform their duties responsibly and respect their home and property. Beyond that, language can be an issue since most helpers and employers do not share the same first language or cultural background. So, do ask your agent specific questions relating to the helper’s experience especially relating to cooking, cleaning and laundry. Do also ask about past refences, training sessions attended, and the helper’s overall attitude.
The answers provided will allow you to get a better sense of whether the agent is making the effort to recommend someone who is a good fit for your household or is more interested in simply closing the deal without caring about your needs.
Question #3. Hygiene Matters
Hygiene standards may differ from household to household and person to person. So, do check with your agent on the helper’s personal hygiene practices and test their knowledge of basic health and safety protocols. Such will ensure a smoother integration into your household.
Question #4. Conflict Resolution Matters
No one wants conflict, but such may arise as is common with all working relationships. Do ask the agent how they help handle conflict between your helper and yourself. The dispute resolution process must be in line with legal obligations and must allow both the helper and the employer to feel fairly treated regardless of the outcome.
Question #5. Care-giving matters
Most households like mine hire a helper to assist the elderly at home and or look after young children too. Do check on the helper’s specific experience with the agent and ask about their willingness to take on certain tasks such as waking up in the middle of the night to change the diapers of the elderly or bathing a baby. Different helpers have different traits which suit different households and a good agent will not recommend someone just for the sake of making some commission of you and the helper.
To Sum Up
By going through these basic questions with your agent, employers can make a better decision when selecting an agent to manage their hiring experience.
Should you have further queries about this topic or need assistance in any way regarding your maid, do feel free to reach out below, and we will do our best to advise!