Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore isn’t just about getting chores done, it’s about creating balance, trust, and harmony in your household. A good employer-helper relationship can transform family life, giving you more peace of mind and a happier home environment.
At EELIT Agency, we’ve supported thousands of families since 2012, and we’ve noticed patterns that separate the good experiences from the challenging ones. Today, we’re sharing 7 employer secrets that can help every Singapore household enjoy a smoother and happier journey with their helper.
Secret 1: Start with Clear Expectations
The first week sets the tone for the entire working relationship. Many employers assume their helper “should already know” what to do, but every family is different.
Take time to explain daily routines:
- What time meals are usually served 🍳
- How children’s school routines are managed 🎒
- Cleaning or cooking priorities 🧹
Create a simple written checklist for the first month. This not only helps your helper adjust faster but also reduces repeated reminders. A helper who understands your expectations early will feel more confident and less stressed.
Secret 2: Respect Rest and Boundaries
Your helper is living in your home, which makes it easy to forget they also need personal space. MOM requires employers to give helpers a weekly rest day, but going beyond the minimum makes a difference.
For example:
- Allow quiet time after dinner so your helper can recharge.
- Respect their rest days without unnecessary calls.
- Provide a comfortable private space where possible.
When helpers feel their boundaries are respected, they tend to be more motivated, healthier, and more committed to the family’s wellbeing.
Secret 3: Communicate with Patience
Good communication doesn’t mean giving orders, it means creating understanding. Helpers may come from different cultural or language backgrounds, and misunderstandings are normal.
Instead of reacting with frustration, try:
- Demonstrating tasks step by step.
- Using kind reminders instead of sharp criticism.
- Encouraging questions when something is unclear.
Patience creates a learning environment where your helper feels safe to improve. In time, this patience pays off in smoother cooperation and stronger trust.
Secret 4: Acknowledge Efforts, Big or Small
Everyone wants to feel valued, and helpers are no different. A simple “thank you” after a well-prepared meal or noticing extra effort in keeping the house tidy can mean the world to them.
Recognition can be shown in many ways:
- A kind word in front of the children.
- A small treat like their favorite snack.
- Allowing them to call home more often as appreciation.
When helpers feel appreciated, they are more loyal and often go the extra mile for the family. Gratitude creates positivity that spreads throughout the home.
Secret 5: Support Training and Growth
Some employers expect helpers to already have all the skills needed, but every household is unique. Training is part of building a strong relationship.
Ways you can support growth:
- Teach your helper your family’s favorite recipes.
- Share childcare routines that are important to you.
- Encourage safe cleaning practices or cooking methods.
At EELIT, we even provide orientation guides to help employers train helpers effectively. A helper who feels they are learning and improving is more engaged and committed to your home.
Secret 6: Build Trust Through Fairness
Trust is the foundation of any successful working relationship. Helpers should know that employers will treat them with fairness and respect. This includes:
- Paying salaries on time 💵
- Being transparent about responsibilities
- Treating helpers with dignity, even during mistakes
Fairness doesn’t mean avoiding discipline, it means being consistent and respectful. A fair employer earns loyalty, which creates a more peaceful and happy household.
Secret 7: Choose the Right Agency Partner
Many employers underestimate the importance of the first step, choosing an agency. A poor match can lead to frustration, multiple transfers, and wasted costs. The right agency ensures:
- Thorough screening of helpers
- Guidance on MOM rules and paperwork
- Ongoing support when issues arise
With a 4.9⭐ Google rating and over a decade of experience, EELIT is trusted by more than 1,000 Singapore families. We don’t just “place” helpers, we make sure the match works for both sides.
Final Thoughts
A happy home doesn’t just happen, it’s built on respect, communication, trust, and the right support. These 7 secrets may seem simple, but when practiced consistently, they transform how your helper feels about working with your family.
👉 Ready to apply these secrets and find the perfect helper? Contact EELIT Agency today and let our consultants guide you every step of the way.