20 Simple Questions to Ask During a Domestic Worker Interview

20 Simple Questions to Ask During a Domestic Worker Interview

Hiring a domestic worker is more than just finding someone who can clean or cook—it’s about inviting someone into your home and building trust. But what do you ask during the interview, especially when English might not be their first language?

Don’t worry. The key is to keep it simple, clear, and kind.

Here’s a list of 20 easy questions that are effective and respectful, helping you understand if a helper is the right fit for your home.

Experience and Background

1.What is your name? (Good to start warm and friendly.)

2.How many years have you worked as a helper?

3.Which countries have you worked in?

4.What kind of jobs did you do before? - (e.g., cleaning, cooking, baby care)

5.Why did you leave your last employer?

Daily Work & Skills

6.Do you know how to clean a house?

7.Can you cook? What food do you know how to cook?

8.Can you follow a recipe (from book or phone)?

9.Do you know how to wash and iron clothes?

10.Have you taken care of children or elderly people before?

Understanding & Communication

11.Do you understand English?

12.If you don't understand something, what will you do? - (e.g., ask again, write it down)

13.Are you okay to use a phone app to see your daily tasks?

14.Can you read short messages in English?

Working Style & Preferences

15.Do you like to follow a routine every day?

16.Are you okay if we give feedback or comments about your work?

17.Do you prefer clear instructions with steps?

18.How do you remember tasks? - (e.g., notes, memory, phone)

Availability & Others

19.When can you start working?

20.Do you have any questions for us?

Singapore-Specific Questions

If you're hiring in Singapore, these additional questions are important to ask:

21.Do you know about MOM (Ministry of Manpower) requirements for helpers?

22.What is your expected salary range? - (Discuss monthly salary and any overtime expectations)

23.Are you comfortable with the rest day arrangement? - (MOM requires at least 1 rest day per week)

24.Do you prefer to work on your rest days for extra pay? - (Understand their preference for compensation)

25.Have you worked in Singapore before? - (If yes, ask about their experience and why they left)

26.Are you familiar with Singapore's safety guidelines for households?

27.Do you have any dietary restrictions or preferences we should know about? - (Important for meal planning)

28.Are you comfortable with using public transportation for errands?

29.Do you have any medical conditions or take any medication we should be aware of?

30.What are your plans for sending money home to your family? - (Helps understand financial expectations)

Note: In Singapore, employers must provide:

  • Monthly salary (minimum SGD 600 for new hires from 2023)
  • At least 1 rest day per week
  • Adequate food and medical care
  • Safe working conditions
  • Weekly day off (can be compensated if helper agrees to work)

Final Tip

During the interview, try to:

  • Speak slowly and clearly
  • Use short sentences
  • Smile and be encouraging

If the helper struggles with language, don’t be discouraged. With the right tools, like the HelperTask app (which shows daily tasks in their preferred language), communication can still be smooth and effective.

Looking for a simple way to manage your helper’s daily work? Try HelperTask — it helps you create clear, step-by-step task lists, all in your helper’s preferred language.

Remember, a good interview sets the tone for a respectful and productive relationship. These questions will help you start strong.