Key Prescreening Questions to Ask for Effective Candidate Evaluation

Do You Have Any Previous Experience as a Helper?

As simple as it sounds, this question could provide enlightening insights into a candidate's expertise and efficiency. Ask about their previous positions, their duties, and how long they held each job.

What Language Skills Do You Possess?

Effective communication is crucial, so it's important to know whether your helper can communicate efficiently in your house's primary language. This could prevent potential misunderstandings or communication breakdowns.

Do You Possess the Legal Requirements to Work as a Helper in Indonesia?

Legalities shouldn't be overlooked when hiring a helper. Ensure your prospective helpers possess the necessary work permits or visas and are legally authorized to work in your locale.

Do You Have Any Cooking Skills? If Yes, What Cuisines Can You Cook?

A helper with cooking skills can be an asset for busy families. Discovering their culinary abilities and the range of cuisines they're comfortable preparing can make meal times much more exciting.

Do You Have Any Cleaning and Hygiene Certification?

Consider asking whether the candidate holds any cleaning, hygiene, or sanitizing certifications. It helps to make sure your surfaces are spotless and sanitary, reducing the risk of bacteria and viruses spreading.

Do You Have Experience in Child Care or Elderly Care?

If you're hiring a helper to assist with childcare or eldercare, it's essential to gauge their experience in these areas. Patience, empathy, and understanding are prerequisites when caring for individuals of varying ages and abilities.

Do You Have Any Professional Training in Housekeeping?

A professionally trained housekeeper can efficiently maintain your home, following proven strategies and methodologies. This can drastically improve the cleanliness and order of your space, saving you time and setting your mind at ease.

What Level of Education Have You Attained?

While educational level may not directly influence a helper's skills, it can offer insightful information about their overall knowledge, social understanding, and communication skills.

Do You Have First Aid or CPR Training?

First aid and CPR trained helpers can provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies, potentially protecting your family from harm. This knowledge might come in crucial, especially when caring for children or the elderly.

Are You Comfortable with Pets?

If you have furry family members, it's vital that your helper enjoys their company and is capable of providing pet care. Ensure to confirm their comfort and experience with pets of all sizes and breeds.

Are You Willing to Live with the Family You Are Working For?

For many families, it's convenient to have the helper stay with them. If you're considering a live-in arrangement, make sure your candidate is comfortable with this setup.

Do You Have Any Health Issues That We Should Be Aware Of?

It is important to consider any health issues a potential helper may have that could impact their ability to perform their duties. Make sure to respect privacy laws and regulations while discussing health-related matters.

Are You Comfortable with Handling Household Chores Including Grocery Shopping and Meal Preparation?

A helper who can efficiently handle chores such as grocery shopping and preparing meals is a great asset. These tasks demand time management, organization, and attention to detail - do they have these skills?

Can You Share Some Instances from Your Past Work Experience Where You Went Above and Beyond?

Asking potential helpers to share examples of going the extra mile can illustrate their commitment and attitude towards their work. It can also provide a glimpse into how they handle situations that are above their basic duties.

Do You Have Any References from Your Previous Employers?

References from previous employers can give a sense of a candidate's work ethic, reliability, and skills. It's a good way to verify the information provided by your candidate and gain an objective third-party perspective.

How Soon Are You Able to Start Work?

Work availability plays a vital role in the hiring process. You'll need to know when the helper can start working. Find out if their availability matches your needs.

Are You Able to Handle Emergencies at Home?

Emergencies can occur at any time, and it's essential that your helper can handle them competently. Gauge their ability to stay calm under pressure, their problem-solving skills, and their knowledge of emergency procedures.

Do You Have Any Experience Managing Budgets and Payments for the Household?

If you're planning to delegate budgeting and payment responsibilities to your helper, understanding their financial management skills is paramount. This question can help you understand their organizational and financial capabilities.

Are You Comfortable Working with a Family that has Specific Dietary Requirements?

Many families follow specific dietary regimens due to health or lifestyle choices. It's crucial that your helper is able to accommodate such requirements when preparing meals and grocery shopping.

What Are Your Salary Expectations?

Finally, discuss salary expectations to ensure that you're on the same page. Achieving a balance between what you're willing to offer and what they expect to receive, will be beneficial in maintaining a long-lasting professional relationship.