How can employers manage expectations before hiring a maid?
The function of a maid frequently involves several responsibilities. These could involve a range of responsibilities, such as housekeeping, cooking, watching the kids, tutoring, gardening, and pet care. Before beginning the hiring process, it is crucial for employers to consider how many of those responsibilities the domestic helper would be expected to fulfil. This will enable the employer to handle their own expectations as well as those of the assistant and other family members.
Define needs and priorities
It is advised that employers take their time in determining and outlining their priorities. This entails considering the demands of the family and ranking them in order to specify the responsibilities of the assistant. Employers will have a better chance of succeeding as managers if they are transparent about their demands and priorities.
Keep in mind the legal scope of duties
It’s critical that employers maintain work role expectations within the parameters of the Standard Employment Contract, as well as the obligations and restrictions outlined within. For instance, it’s critical to comprehend the kind of work activities that are allowed under a domestic work visa. Your maid agency is responsible to share all of the terms of the employment contract with you once you engaged them.
Understand family member expectations
It is recommended that employers hold family discussions regarding the expectations for the role of a maid and the responsibilities of various family members. To establish a positive work environment, it is essential that all members of the family are in agreement. It is also crucial that everyone in the family is aware of who will be in charge of managing the maid on a daily basis.
Understand the helper’s expectation
It is imperative for employers to familiarise themselves with the expectations, abilities, experience, and preferences of maids in Malaysia. To make sure that the helper’s role expectations are in line with the job position that the company is hiring for, it is crucial to do this throughout the interview process.
How can employers work on expectation management after hiring a maid?
The main job really starts after hiring the maid and bringing her into your household, as it’s crucial to set reasonable expectations once this takes place.
Remember the importance of managing
Employers of domestic workers frequently make the error of undervaluing their managerial responsibilities. The active management of the employer has a significant impact on the helper’s ability to satisfy expectations. Because of this, it’s critical that employers take the time to explain to the maid exactly what is expected of them and to offer ongoing feedback on their progress.
Expect cultural differences
Employers must remember that maids may have diverse cultural origins. This implies that an employer and a maid may have different perspectives on certain issues. This implies that the idea of “common sense” is not really widespread. Employers should instead consider common sense to be a reflection of each helper’s unique background and experience.
Expect a transition period
Even a seasoned maid will require some time to pick up new abilities and become acclimated to the tastes and requirements of a new family. Furthermore, it will take some time for the employer and other family members to become used to this new position.
Be prepared to adjust expectations
Over time, employers may discover that modifications are required to manage performance, enhance job happiness, and accommodate evolving home requirements. The secret to this approach is to stay in constant, positive communication with the maid while remaining receptive to exploring new avenues for collaboration.
