5 Ways to Building Harmonious Employer-Employee Relationships with Foreign Domestic Helpers

Many Foreign Domestic Helpers’ employers have their own job as employees, thus they must know the importance of a positive employer-employee relationship. If employers consistently communicate with their Foreign Domestic Helpers(FDHs) in a negative manner, fail to appreciate their efforts, and engage in criticism without recognition, employees are likely to become disheartened, demotivated,  as a result, their productivity may decrease, or may even consider resigning. The same principles apply when dealing with FDHs, with the distinction that they are live-in employees, moreover, they have left their home countries to work in Hong Kong, often with different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Hence, it's crucial to treat them as we would like to be treated. Below are some insights on interacting with Foreign Domestic Helpers

1. Select Foreign Domestic Helpers with Relevant Experience

Before hiring FDHs, employer should have a clear understanding of the primary responsibilities expect their helpers to handle, such as cleaning, assisting with newborns and mothers, caring for children, or looking after elderly family members. When selecting FDHs, prioritize those with relevant experience or skills. For instance, patience may be essential for those caring for children, and a FDH with her own children may have valuable experience. Likewise, assisting the elderly may require some knowledge of the Chinese language and physical strength. Before hiring, communicate job requirements clearly to avoid mismatched expectations and help your domestic helper prepare mentally.

2. Prepare an Introduction Checklist

When FDHs first arrive, they may not be familiar with their duties or the local environment. Employers can arrange a series of introductions, in addition to verbal guidance, consider preparing an introduction checklist in English to help your domestic helper adapt to the new environment. If it's their first time working in Hong Kong, introduce them to transportation facilities. If your FDH needs to purchase groceries or daily supplies, take them to nearby supermarkets, local markets, convenience stores, and other places they might need to visit, allowing them to become self-reliant quickly.

3. Assign Tasks and Priorities According to Their Abilities

For FDHs with limited experience, start with simple tasks. If they struggle to prioritize tasks, provide them with guidance or even create a detailed work schedule. Be patient and avoid a condescending or critical attitude. If your novice FDH lacks certain skills, consider demonstrating and guiding them or providing reminders. If you employ an experienced FDH, you may give them more autonomy, with fewer restrictions, as long as they complete their tasks within reasonable parameters. For tasks that require immediate attention, communicate directly with your FDH. Adjust their workload and responsibilities based on their capabilities to avoid inefficient outcomes.

4. Show Genuine Interest in Your Domestic Helper

Since Hong Kong is not the birthplace or hometown of most FDHs, they often experience homesickness. Employers can show their care proactively by getting to know the FDH 's family and their hometown situation. You can also stress the importance of financial literacy to your FDH. By treating your FDH with appropriate sincerity, they can feel your care, which can increase their loyalty and reduce the likelihood of them changing jobs.

5. Educate Family Members and Discuss Arrangements

If your FDH is responsible for taking care of children, it's important to teach your children how to interact with FDH. Avoid introducing your FDH solely as a "worker" but as a vital member of the family's daily operations. Leading by example, employers should always treat FDHs with respect. Moreover, if family members, especially children or elderly family members, have specific habits or dietary needs, communicate these requirements carefully to your FDH. It's also essential to discuss how to assign tasks and the attitude to maintain when directing the FDH's work.

Foreign Domestic Helpers often experience significant stress when leaving their homes and adapting to a new country. Employers rely on their assistance to ease the family's responsibilities. Therefore, fostering a respectful and positive relationship with FDH is beneficial for both parties.

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The information provided in this article is for general reference only and should not be considered as any form of advice. Our company assumes no responsibility for its use