Another maid one.....

[Question?]

I'm new to this employing a maid or having anyone work for me for that matter so was wondering if someone could advise.

I have two questions...

There are only 2 of us in a 3 bed apartment and we are fairly clean but the maid takes anything from 5-6 hours to mop floors, clean one bathroom, one bedroom and do the ironing (full basket) - is this normal?  

The reason I ask this is that when she is here she seems to spend most of her time on her mobile or if she's not talking she is SMS'ing.  I really do not mind her taking breaks but the phone goes every 10 mins.  Do I say something or am I being too harsh??

Thansk for any help.

[Answer]

I think you are missing the main point: what do you need a maid for ? If you are only two in a three bedroom apartment (we also live in a three bedroom apartment but we have no maid and we do not see any good reason to get one) I wonder what you need a full time maid for. Of course she has nothing to do all day if all what she has to do is to take care of a two-people apartment. If you really are not able or willing to spend a couple of hours per week to clean your apartment, why don't you get a maid by the hour (like 4 hours two times a week or something) just to clean and get the ironing done? I am sure it would be more cost effective and then you won't have to complain that your maid has nothing to do all day.

[Questions?]

Jees - did you get out the wrong side of the bed this morning or what?

It is none of your business as to why we have a maid but for the record I am disabled.

Maybe you should think twice before jumping in like that.

Would appreciate any constructive replies.

[Its a job]

So treat it like you would other employees.  Set the groundrules and guidelines, but be prepared to follow them.  Best to set expectations up front.  Just remember though, if you give in to not upholding, then it WILL happen again and again.  

Good luck - and everyone should have someone to help out if they can afford...who would want to spend one moment of their free time here dusting and mopping??! Too many great things to do!

[Question?]

So do I tell her she can't use her mobile?

[Its a job]

If she's abusing it, then certainly.  No employer would accept the employee chatting away while on the clock... I have a fantastic maid but still set the rules.

Tell her to get vmail if she is worried about missing anything.

[Answer]

My apologies ... didn't mean to be rude, it is just that I am sick to read hundreds of postings from people who have nothing better to do than complaining about their maid when they actually do not even need one but they need to have it just as a status symbol ...

My advice ... you are her employer and you should treat her as any employer treats his own employees: if she is doing what you ask her to do and she still has the time left to make all those phone calls I guess it is just her business as long as it doesn't disturb. If she doesn't deliver what she is expected to then have a honest conversation with her and make clear what are your expectations. If the situation doesn't improve then I guess the only solution is to fire her.

Good luck!!!

[Meiser]

..To be quite honest. You are being too soft and letting it go on too long.

I know it's difficult to adjust to handling domestic workers (I also found it uncomfortable when I first arrived here).

You need to tell her very straight. If there are 2 others in the apartment, get them there to give you moral strength. Ask her if she is happy working for you. If there is anything bothering her. Ask her is she thinks you are a fair boss. Listen to her and stay calm.. knod! Smile too!

Innocently tell her you are slightly concerned. Ask her who is calling her so frequently.

   ....then when she has finished, tell her very calmly (do not raise you voice or get emotional) that you are not happy. That you had given the situation a lot of consideration and rather than create any bad feeling you 3 have decided to explain how you feel things should be conducted. Make a list before-hand. Stick to it. Do not discuss it. It is not open to discussion - discuss it before-hand with your 2 friends. Give a solid, united face.. Agree that none of you will question the points in front of her.  Save the toughest points to last.. Tell her straight. The handphone is to turned off during working hours. That calls are not work related and you are not paying her to chat with her friends. She is free to call during her break (tell her when that is) and during lunch times and her other free times.

I know this sounds rather harsh and unfriendly, but believe me.. ..she is taking advantage of you and you need to show her it's not going to be tolerated.

BUT, this is Asia so you must appear to be firm but fair. Stick to your guns totally and tell her you'll see how things go.

I have had serval maids.. I treated them all like friends. Big mistake! I came home once to find them having a party once. I pay a better than average salary and give occasional perks, but I also make sure it's appreciated now - rather than taken for granted.

Good luck!

[Question?]

Thanks Meiser - I'll give it a go.