Hiring a new domestic helper can feel a bit like getting a new phone—you’re excited, but there’s that daunting moment where you realize there’s no manual. So, where do you begin when it comes to training your helper? Whether it’s teaching them how to handle your specific household needs or just explaining why your kids’ stuffed animal collection requires an “arrangement strategy,” setting up a proper training plan is key to getting off on the right foot.
In this blog, we’ll cover the essentials of training your new domestic helper, making sure you start things off smooth—like a freshly cleaned kitchen countertop. And of course, we’ll sprinkle in some humor along the way, because training doesn’t have to feel like boot camp!
1. Start with the Basics: The “House Tour”
Before you dive into the nitty-gritty of cleaning schedules or meal prep, begin with a simple house tour. Introduce your helper to the layout of your home and walk them through where things are kept. And yes, resist the urge to apologize for the clutter in that one “storage” room that you swear you’ll get to later.
Show them the important areas like the kitchen, laundry room, and bedrooms. Also, clarify any special instructions (e.g., “The dishwasher is basically decorative. We just hand-wash everything.”).
Pro Tip: If you have an unusual appliance or that one quirk in the house (looking at you, stubborn door that only opens when you pull and twist), make sure to give a demo. There’s nothing like watching your helper try to figure out your over-complicated coffee machine like it’s a NASA control panel.
2. Clear Communication: It's Not Just About Chore Lists
Training is much easier when communication is clear from the get-go. Be specific about your expectations for each task. For example, don’t just say, “Keep the house clean.” Instead, outline the cleaning schedule, products to use, and areas that need extra attention (like the dog’s favorite corner for… activities).
It’s also a good idea to explain any family habits or preferences. If you’re a “no shoes in the house” household or have a particular method for folding laundry (Marie Kondo anyone?), now’s the time to mention it.
Remember, clear communication doesn’t mean being rigid—allow room for questions. Encourage your helper to ask if they’re unsure about something. After all, nobody wants to be that person Googling how to operate a washing machine in secret.
3. Step-by-Step Training: Don’t Overwhelm on Day One
Think of the first few weeks as the orientation period (minus the corporate PowerPoints). Don’t try to teach everything at once. Start with the most important daily tasks like meal preparation, cleaning, or child care routines, and work your way to more occasional duties such as ironing or deep cleaning.
Try to show rather than just tell—demonstrate how you like things done, and then let them try. It’s also important to give them time to settle in and ask questions along the way. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was your perfectly organized pantry.
4. Be Patient and Offer Feedback (Kindly!)
Training is a process, and like any process, there will be a learning curve. If your helper doesn’t get something right on the first try, take a deep breath. (Maybe pour yourself some tea?) When offering feedback, be constructive and kind. Remember, it’s all about helping them improve, not making them feel bad for not being able to predict that you prefer your coffee with exactly 1.75 teaspoons of sugar.
Give feedback in real-time when possible. Acknowledge what they’re doing well, and gently correct any mistakes. For example, “I love how you’re so thorough with the cleaning! Let’s try using less detergent next time—these bubbles are starting to look like a scene from a cartoon.”
5. Introduce Them to Household Routines: The Rhythm of the Home
Every household has its own rhythm, whether it’s a strict schedule or a more laid-back routine. Let your helper know what the daily flow looks like. This might involve school drop-offs, meal times, or even quiet hours when the kids are (hopefully) napping. Let them know when they’ll have free time too, so they don’t feel like they’re on duty 24/7.
Be sure to walk them through weekly tasks as well, like taking out the trash or dealing with the recycling. And don’t forget to include information about any family traditions, like Sunday pancakes or your weekly game of “find the remote.”
6. Celebrate Small Wins: Give Positive Reinforcement
Training is hard work for both of you, so make sure to celebrate progress, even if it’s just small wins. Did they finally master the vacuum that requires a user manual? Or remember exactly how you like your toast (slightly burnt, but in a good way)? Let them know when they’ve done a great job.
Positive reinforcement goes a long way in making your helper feel appreciated and confident in their role. A little praise here and there helps them feel motivated to keep learning.
Final Thoughts: Training with Patience and Positivity
Remember, training your domestic helper is all about setting them up for success. Take your time, be patient, and communicate openly. With a little humor and a lot of understanding, you’ll build a great working relationship in no time.
At findhelp.sg, we’re here to support employers in Singapore every step of the way—from finding the right domestic helper to helping you establish effective training programs. And who knows? With the right guidance, your home might soon run so smoothly that you’ll forget what life was like before all the socks found their proper pair. (Almost.)