Everyone involved in the hiring process will do their best to ensure the maid who arrives in the employer’s home is a good fit. However, there are certainly occasions when such is not the case.
Employers may feel helpless at this stage. But there is really no reason to feel that way as there are certainly steps you can take to improve the situation based on the severity of it.
Here are some options you as an employer may consider taking when trying to remedy an unpleasant situation with your helper:
Option #1 Communication Your Expectations Again
If your helper is not meeting your expectations, do start by having an open and honest conversation with them. Clearly communicate your concerns, expectations, and any specific issues you are unhappy about. In many cases, the helper may not be deliberately disobedient. Instead, she might not fully understand your needs or there might be some misunderstanding. In such cases, clear and effective communication can usually help to resolve the issue.
Option #2 Offer Opportunities For Upgrading
Your helper may be trying her best but is still unable to meet the standards required. In such cases, you can consider providing additional training to the helper. If it is a task you are familiar with, you can guide the maid through the specific tasks you would like them to perform and show them the correct way to do it. Alternatively, you can approach your agent to find out more about upgrading opportunities for your helper. This is an investment you may want to make only if the helper has the right attitude but is lacking in terms of job competency.
Option #3 Conduct Regular Performance Reviews
One way to ensure that your helper and you stay on the same page is to conduct regular performance reviews with your helper. This can take place quarterly or at less frequent durations when they have become more experienced. Setting aside this time offers you a platform to discuss your helper’s progress and any areas that need improvement in a scheduled manner. This can help both parties stay on the same page and can prevent unhappiness from boiling over.
Option #4 Contact The Agent You Hired
The agent you used to hire the helper probably has more experience handling disputes than you or anyone around you. This is after all their main rice bowl and they do it for a living. So, do tap on their experience and expertise by reaching out to them and explaining the situation. In most cases, they will be able to offer guidance, advice, or even arrange for additional training for your helper.
Option #5 Termination Of Employment
Terminating your helper’s employment contract is the last resort and should only be done after careful consideration. This needs to be done in accordance with the employment laws of Singapore, and you should speak to your agent to ensure that all legal requirements are adhered too.
The agent will typically arrange for the helper to return to their home country and will assist with the necessary paperwork, such as exit permits and travel arrangements. Depending on the circumstances of the termination, you might need to speak with your agent about any refundable deposits or any fees that might apply. This will vary based on the terms of your agreement.
To Sum Up
Ultimately, no one wants to be in a situation where a poor fit is hired for the home. A good agent will act in your interest even before the contract is signed to mitigate the risk of this happening.
However, there is no such thing as a 100% success rate. So, what is important is to work with agent who will be there for you should things not work out.
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 help!