Help her to adjust to working and living in your home
Many maids are unfamiliar with the daily aspects of Singaporean life such as the usage of electrical appliances, standard of hygiene and cultural practices. Some maids may also miss their home.
Give your maid time to adjust to our culture, people and pace of life and work. You can make an effort to know her better and as far as possible, encourage her to feel part of your family so that she can settle in better.
Even if your maid had worked in Singapore before, she will still need time to understand your expectations of her, especially when she starts working with you.
Let Her Know Your Expectations
- Create a weekly or daily schedule for your maid to follow, especially in the early stages of her employment.
- Give clear instructions. Demonstrations are also essential as your maid may be unfamiliar with your needs. This will help to reduce misunderstandings as much as possible.
- Let your maid know that she can approach you for help.
- Set house rules on the following areas:
- Whether she can bring her friends home
- When can she use her mobile phone
- What time you would like her to be home on her off days
- What she can eat or cook for herself
For any special requirements or more complex tasks, tell your maid your requirements. Show her how to perform these tasks as she may be unfamiliar with them or may have different practices from you.
If you need her to look after your ill children, especially when they are on medication:
For any special requirements or more complex tasks, tell your maid your requirements. Show her how to perform these tasks as she may be unfamiliar with them or may have different practices from you.
If you need her to look after your ill children, especially when they are on medication:
- Tell your maid about your child’s medication schedule and dosages and write them down. You may use special pillboxes to help her to remember the dosages easier.
- Provide a list of emergency numbers for your maid, including ambulance services and your family members’ contact numbers.
If you expect her to cook, discuss with her:
- Any special dietary requirements.
- Your preferred recipes, ingredients and style of cooking.
- You can guide her by asking her to perform the tasks while you observe.
