Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore is more than filling a role—it’s about finding someone you can trust in your home, around your family, day in and day out. This person will likely become part of your household, so the decision deserves more than a quick scan of a resume. A helper might have solid experience, but that doesn’t always mean they’re the right fit for your lifestyle or expectations. The interview is your best chance to get real answers, understand their attitude, and see if there’s mutual respect and alignment.

 

 

Hiring Right: Your Guide To Interviewing Domestic Helpers Effectively

 

1. Understand Legal and Cultural Context

Before you start interviewing, make sure you understand the legal framework that governs hiring foreign domestic workers in Singapore. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has clear guidelines on who can hire, the age and origin requirements for helpers, medical and insurance responsibilities, and employment terms. Failing to comply can result in fines or bans. Working with an established maid recruitment agency helps you stay compliant with all MOM requirements.

Employers are responsible for the helper’s safety, accommodation, medical care, and fair treatment. Domestic helpers in Singapore are entitled to rest days, proper food, and prompt salary payment. Besides, many domestic helpers come from countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar. Understanding and respecting their customs, communication styles, and religious practices can make your home a more comfortable environment—and create a smoother working relationship.

 

2. Prepare Before the Interview

You’ll get better results when you start with clarity.

 

  • Define Household Needs:

Be specific about what you need help with. Is the priority childcare, eldercare, general housekeeping, or cooking? For example, if you have toddlers, look for someone with a background in child safety and patience with young kids.

 

  • List Must-Haves vs Nice-to-Haves:

You might need someone who can cook Chinese dishes well, while speaking Mandarin is just a nice extra. Or perhaps elderly care experience is a must, but you’re not too concerned about whether they’re comfortable with pets. Clarifying this helps you stay focused during interviews.

 

  • Prepare Structured Questions: Go beyond “Can you cook?” Ask targeted questions like:

  1. “What dishes are you most confident cooking?”
  2. “Have you ever handled a medical emergency? What did you do?”
  3. “How do you handle a child who refuses to eat?”

This helps you compare candidates fairly.

 

  • Conduct Virtual or In-Person Interviews:

If your candidate is still overseas, virtual interviews (via WhatsApp or Zoom) are standard. Gallant Manpower offers full maid management services and is happy to coordinate these calls and help translate if needed.

 

3. Key Areas to Cover During the Interview

A good interview covers both skills and character. Here are the core areas to explore:

 

  • Work History:

Ask about past employers—what their duties were, how long they stayed, and why they left. Look for consistency and honesty. Gaps in employment aren’t always a red flag, but they should be explained.

 

  • Skills and Strengths:

Have them describe their strengths in cooking, cleaning, elderly care, or childcare. If you are opting for home maid services, you would need someone who’s confident with routines like laundry, ironing, or managing grocery lists.

 

  • Scenario-Based Questions:

These reveal how they think and act in real situations. Ask:

  1. “What would you do if the child you’re looking after has a high fever?”
  2. “What if you accidentally broke something expensive?”
  3. “What would you do if someone rang the doorbell when you’re alone with the baby?”

These questions give insight into problem-solving and honesty.

 

  • Personality Fit:

Some families prefer helpers who are quiet and follow instructions; others want someone more proactive. Ask about their preferred working style, how they handle feedback, and what they expect from an employer.

 

  • Expectations:

This is where many misunderstandings happen. Be clear about:

  1. Days off and whether they’re fixed or flexible.
  2. Use of phones and personal time.
  3. Whether they prefer to eat with the family or separately. Also, do they have any dietary restrictions?
  4. Willingness to learn new skills or follow specific routines.

 

4. Watch for Red Flags

While interviewing, keep an eye out for common warning signs:

 

  • Vague or Contradictory Answers:

If a candidate can’t clearly explain what they did in previous jobs or keeps changing details, dig deeper.

 

  • Frequent Job Changes:

It’s worth understanding the reasons behind frequent moves. Was it due to contract completion, or were there conflicts?

 

  • Overpromising:

Be cautious if the helper says “yes” to every question, even when it’s unlikely they’ve had that much experience. A reliable helper knows her limits and is always honest about them.

 

  • Lack of Questions or Interest:

An engaged helper will ask about the family, working conditions, or what’s expected. If there’s no curiosity, it may show disinterest or lack of commitment.

Gallant Manpower, known among the best maid agencies in Singapore, often help filter out candidates with red flags before they reach you—but it’s still wise to stay alert and conduct a thorough interview.

 

5. Involve Relevant Family Members

Involving your family in the interview process helps you assess whether the domestic helper will truly fit into your household. If the helper will be caring for your children or elderly parents, let them meet briefly during the interview to observe natural interaction. Pay attention to how she communicates—does she show patience, warmth, and attentiveness? Sometimes, subtle cues from family members can reveal more than a formal Q&A. Including your loved ones early also helps set the stage for mutual comfort and trust once she joins your home.

 

6. Clarify Next Steps

Once you’ve chosen a domestic helper, avoid leaving anything open-ended. Clearly decide whether there will be a trial period or an immediate start. Go over important details like salary, rest days, living arrangements, and daily responsibilities. Having a respectful but direct conversation about expectations helps prevent misunderstandings and shows you’re serious about creating a fair working relationship.

Providing full-scale maid management services, Gallant Manpower helps draw up employment contracts, explain MOM paperwork, and provide ongoing support even after hiring—ensuring a smoother transition for both parties.

 

 

Summary:

 

Interviewing a domestic helper isn’t just a box to check—it’s a key step in finding someone who can genuinely support and fit into your home life. By preparing well, asking thoughtful questions, and involving your family, you increase your chances of finding a reliable, trustworthy helper who aligns with your household’s values and routines. For expert help every step of the way, from screening to paperwork to post-placement support, partner with Gallant Manpower today!