Setting Up Your Home Before Your New Helper Arrives

The first week sets the tone for the entire working relationship. Preparing your home and your family before your new helper arrives reduces friction, sets clear expectations, and makes the transition smooth for everyone.

Prepare the Accommodation

Your helper must have a private room (or at minimum a private sleeping area), a clean mattress, fresh bedding, and access to a bathroom. Provide a small storage space for personal belongings. This is both a legal requirement and basic dignity.

Write a House Rules Document

Cover: working hours, daily duties with a schedule, rest day (day and time), use of phone during working hours, meal arrangements, access to household spaces, and any cultural or dietary restrictions in your home. Write it simply and translate key points if needed.

Brief Your Children and Elderly Family Members

Prepare your children for the new arrangement — explain who the helper is and how to interact respectfully. If the helper will be caring for an elderly parent, introduce them before the first day if possible.

Stock Basic Supplies

Ensure the household has adequate cleaning supplies, basic toiletries for the helper, and ingredients for a culturally familiar meal on the first day. Small gestures matter in building goodwill early.

Plan a First-Week Orientation

Walk your helper through the home: appliances, storage locations, emergency exits, and important contact numbers. Show them how you like things done rather than assuming. Reserve time each evening for a brief check-in during the first week.

Give Time to Adjust

Your helper has just left their home country and family. Allow for a settling-in period of 2-4 weeks before assessing performance. Patience and clear communication during this period prevents early termination.

GLC Hire provides an Employer Handbook with templates for house rules, daily schedules, and checklists. Ask your placement consultant for a copy.