Hiring a domestic helper is a big decision—not just for your household but also for the helper who may be relocating far from home. While the biodata provides a good starting point, a well-conducted interview can make all the difference in finding the right match.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help employers conduct more meaningful and effective interviews:

Step 1: Review the Biodata, but Go Beyond It

The biodata includes basic details like age, nationality, work experience, and education. But it doesn’t tell the whole story.

• Use the interview to get to know the helper beyond her CV.
• Ask about her daily routine in her previous job, how she managed responsibilities, and how she interacts with children or elderly persons.
• Clarify any gaps or inconsistencies in her biodata.

Pro Tip: A helper who sounds quiet on paper may shine in person—don’t judge solely based on what’s written.

Step 2: Evaluate Her Language Skills

Communication is key in any household.

• Are you comfortable talking to her?
• Can she understand and respond to your instructions?
• If she’s a fresh helper, assess if you're willing to train her or prefer someone with prior experience.

Tip: If language is important to you, consider hiring a Filipino helper or an experienced Burmese / Indonesian helper who has worked in Singapore, Hong Kong, or Taiwan.

Step 3: Assess Her Relevant Skillsets

Domestic work covers a range of responsibilities. Make sure her experience aligns with your needs.

• Does she have experience in infant care, childcare, elderly care, cooking, or housekeeping?
• Ask practical questions:
  “Can you describe how you would plan a child's day?”
  “How do you manage cleaning when the employer is working from home?”

Tailor your questions to your household needs.

Step 4: Ask Open-Ended Questions

Avoid questions that get only “yes” or “no” answers like “Are you okay with dogs?” or “Can you cook?”

Instead, ask:

• “Tell me about a time you had to prepare meals for a family.”
• “What do you do when a child refuses to eat or sleep?”

These help reveal how the helper thinks, reacts, and solves problems.

Step 5: Understand Her Previous Work Experience

If the helper has worked before, it's important to know why she left her previous job.

• Was the employer’s contract completed?
• Was it due to personal reasons or workplace issues?
• How does she describe her past employers and daily responsibilities?

Understanding her history helps you evaluate her work ethic, expectations, and potential fit.

Step 6: Understand Her Motivation

Motivation is a strong predictor of commitment.

• Ask: “Why do you want to work in Singapore?”
• Is she supporting a family, saving for a goal, or just trying it out?

Look for genuine interest and long-term commitment. Helpers with clear, practical goals tend to be more stable and motivated.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right domestic helper isn’t just about qualifications—it’s about fit, communication, and mutual understanding. Take your time during the interview and don’t be afraid to ask questions that help both of you make an informed decision.

At Teo Express, we help employers ask the right questions and find the right match. Need help interviewing a helper? Contact us today—we're here to support you every step of the way.

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