Selection Process Checklist
A step-by-step approach to finding the right match for your household
Define Your Requirements
- Identify your specific household needs (childcare, eldercare, general housekeeping)
- Determine language proficiency requirements
- Consider required experience level
- List specific skills needed (cooking, baby care, elderly care, etc.)
- Decide on preferred nationality or cultural background (if relevant)
Review Helper Profiles
- Examine work experience and skills match
- Check age and maturity level appropriate for your needs
- Review nationality in relation to your language requirements
- Assess educational background
- Evaluate previous employers' feedback
Conduct Effective Interviews
- Prepare a structured interview with standardized questions
- Assess communication skills and language proficiency
- Ask scenario-based questions to gauge problem-solving abilities
- Discuss specific job requirements and expectations
- Evaluate personality match with your household
Verify Background
- Contact previous employers for references
- Verify professional training certifications
- Check medical history and fitness for the role
- Review any disciplinary records or concerns
- Validate identity documents and work experience claims
Discuss Terms Clearly
- Clearly explain work scope and responsibilities
- Establish salary, rest days, and working hours
- Discuss accommodation arrangements
- Outline house rules and expectations
- Address any cultural considerations or dietary requirements
Effective Interview Questions
Key questions to ask during the selection process
Work Experience & Skills
Assess past experience and specific skills
- Can you describe your previous work experience with other employers?
- What specific household tasks are you most comfortable with?
- What childcare/eldercare experience do you have?
- What cooking skills do you have? What cuisines can you prepare?
- How do you typically organize your daily tasks?
Problem Solving
Evaluate critical thinking and handling challenges
- What would you do if a child refuses to eat or follow instructions?
- How would you handle a situation if there was a small kitchen fire?
- What would you do if an elderly person falls while in your care?
- How would you manage your tasks if there was a sudden change in plans?
- How do you prioritize tasks when there are multiple urgent requests?
Communication & Compatibility
Assess communication style and cultural fit
- How comfortable are you asking questions when instructions aren't clear?
- How do you prefer to receive feedback about your work?
- What are your expectations regarding privacy and personal time?
- How do you typically resolve misunderstandings with employers?
- What aspects of our household might be challenging for you?
Character & Values
Understand personal traits and work ethics
- What do you consider your greatest strengths as a domestic worker?
- How do you handle stressful situations?
- Why did you choose to become a domestic worker?
- What do you hope to achieve during your employment?
- How would your previous employers describe you?
Potential Red Flags
Warning signs to be aware of during the selection process
Watch Out For These Signs
Helpful Selection Tools
Resources to assist you in making an informed decision
Interview Checklist Template
A printable checklist to help you evaluate candidates consistently.
Reference Check Form
A structured form for contacting previous employers.
Making the Final Decision
After interviewing candidates and checking references, take time to carefully evaluate each candidate:
- 1
Compare each candidate against your requirements list
Determine which candidate best matches your specific needs.
- 2
Consider the personal connection
The helper will become part of your household, so compatibility is important.
- 3
Trust your instincts
Sometimes the best qualification is a good attitude and willingness to learn.
- 4
Discuss with family members
Ensure all decision-makers in your household provide input.
- 5
Consider a trial period if possible
Some agencies allow a probation period to ensure mutual compatibility.
Need help finding the right helper?
Our team can assist you throughout the selection process, from defining requirements to conducting interviews and making the final choice.